Zion in a ward might begin one day like this. A fine Latter-day Saint woman working at home in her kitchen hums along with a Tabernacle Choir performance of \u201cCome, Come, Ye Saints\u201d on her CD player or computer. The music lifts her, taking her for a moment to a higher plane. The Spirit then comes upon her, filling her soul with the wonderful imagery of the pioneers crossing the plains. Matching the power of the music, the Spirit intensifies her emotions, lifting her a step higher. It is here at this higher level that she finds the first inkling of Zion\u2013\u2013a feeling, a hope, a desire to move closer to the ideal in life. Here, carried away in the Spirit, she can look out from her kitchen\u2019s covered wagon and say, \u201cIt is enough. This is the right place.\u201d She sees a first vision of what Zion will look like for her family. But she must act quickly while in the Spirit, remembering to lay down bread crumbs so she can return again at any time.<\/p>","image_name":"B1_Ch27_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"Zion at Home and in the Ward","summary_id_org":"1","rand_no":"703085732","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"1"},{"summary_id":"2","book":"1","chapter":"26","caption":"The Quickening Effect of the Holy Ghost","image_caption":"Carried away by the Spirit<\/br>we can see amazing things","image_caption2":"","start_context":"What does Zion feel like?","end_context":"expressions, love, tears, and good works.","page_no":"176","page_content":"
What does Zion feel like? How does one share its glad tidings? <\/p>
<\/p>
Let us consider once again the woman described above. A testimony of something truly special has filled her soul. In the hours that follow her first vision of Zion, there is a radiance about her much like that seen in new members of the Church as they are baptized and raised out of the water, and as hands are laid upon them to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. This radiance will tarry with her for a while, but soon the normal challenges of a fast-paced world return. Following the trail of breadcrumbs, however, she can find her way back. Along this pathway in the return journey, she must kneel to pray and ponder often, sounding out new words in the language of the Spirit, and learning to think, feel, and act by the power of the Holy Ghost. As she returns to this place, for a second or even a third time, there is a cumulative effect that leaves a more lasting impression upon her soul. Therefore, she can gather up the breadcrumbs and lay down more permanent markers\u2014polished white stones that illuminate the pathway for herself and others.<\/p>
<\/p>
The quickening effect of the Holy Ghost transforms her; she becomes a sparkling ornament brightening the family Christmas tree for generations to come. Light reflects off her, creating a magical effect upon everything in the home. Her countenance changes; she speaks more often in reverent tones, communicating to everyone through sensitive facial expressions, love, tears, and good works.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"Zion at Home and in the Ward","summary_id_org":"2","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"2"},{"summary_id":"3","book":"1","chapter":"26","caption":"A Marveous Change Taking Place in the Home","image_caption":"Melchizedek\u2014a great high priest<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"If he is not too busy with","end_context":"all these things in their proper order.","page_no":"176","page_content":"
If he is not too busy with his day job or his Church work, her husband will soon notice the great and marvelous change taking place in the home. Where she is like a shiny Christmas tree ornament reflecting light, he becomes like a small kitten sitting close to the tree, watching her every move. His eyes are suddenly full of the wonderment and curiosity of Zion, seeing the sparkling tinsel, and how the light of the gospel reflects off of her. Through her, he sees a vision of Zion, gaining a testimony all his own. Zion as seen through the natural beauty of a woman is all the more wonderful for a man to experience in life.<\/p>
<\/p>
Although humble and meek like a small kitten towards his wife, the man of the house can draw power from this new vision and become a great and powerful lion, one of faith and leadership among his fellow men. Following the stones set along this pathway to Zion, he might first look to the example of Melchizedek, trying to visualize what marvelous works were done in his era. For Melchizedek was a great high priest, and a prince of peace; many came before, and many came after, but none were greater. He, therefore, follows after the order of Melchizedek, and after the order of the Son of God, exercising mighty faith and establishing peace in his home and in his ward. He can pursue a great legacy, and rise to take his place among the most honored of Heavenly Father's children. Zion will wait, for she is very patient, allowing him time to gain a knowledge of all these things in their proper order.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"Zion at Home and in the Ward","summary_id_org":"3","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"3"}],"27":[{"summary_id":"4","book":"1","chapter":"27","caption":"Bringing Desire and Humility Together","image_caption":"Desire and humility<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"If we can just link these two","end_context":"and achieve the dream of the pioneers.","page_no":"182","page_content":"
If we can just link these two things together in our lives, humility and desire, there is no limit as to what we can accomplish in the gospel. Establishing a prototype of Zion in our wards becomes possible. We can complete the work and achieve the dream of the pioneers.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"The Pursuit of Excellence","summary_id_org":"4","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"4"}],"28":[{"summary_id":"5","book":"1","chapter":"28","caption":"What Makes One Happy in Life?","image_caption":"Sister missionaries are the<\/br>essence of happiness","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Happiness is a result of many","end_context":"obedience to a higher power.","page_no":"183","page_content":"
Happiness is a result of many things: self-control, inner peace, desire for life, humility, love of God and man, and obedience to a higher power.<\/p>","image_name":"B1_Ch5_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"10","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"The Garden Swing","summary_id_org":"5","rand_no":"12179192","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"5"},{"summary_id":"6","book":"1","chapter":"28","caption":"A Man of God Will Soberly Read the Scriptures","image_caption":"The testimony of prophets<\/br>and the visions of seers","image_caption2":"","start_context":"A fine habit of his, the study","end_context":"him and took hold of his emotions.","page_no":"183","page_content":"
A fine habit of his, the study of scriptures was something he had started at a young age. But this was true of all Mark\u2019s goals in life\u2013\u2013they were started at a young age with the gospel and church in mind. Through a lifetime of good works, his testimony of Jesus Christ had become powerful, and when he sat down to read the scriptures at night, he did so as a man of God. Therefore, these were not nights of passive reading by someone only vaguely interested in the material. He opened the books soberly, and searched them carefully, like Lehi taking possession of the brass plates for the first time. Before him were the teachings of Christ, the testimonies of prophets, the visions of seers, the histories of great civilizations, and the words of eternal life. As he read, the words leaped off the pages at him and took hold of his emotions.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"The Garden Swing","summary_id_org":"6","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"6"},{"summary_id":"7","book":"1","chapter":"28","caption":"Wise and Humble Before God","image_caption":"Gospel instruction received<\/br>as a child","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Mark had long since made","end_context":"but he was wise and humble before God.","page_no":"185","page_content":"
Mark had long since made the decision in his life to choose the right, remembering always the gospel instruction he had received from his parents as a child. He was not wealthy, but his mind was filled with riches. He was not the most educated, the most articulate, nor the most accomplished in terms of career, but he was wise and humble before God.<\/p>","image_name":"B1_Ch5_3.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"The Garden Swing","summary_id_org":"7","rand_no":"70029945","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"7"}],"29":[{"summary_id":"8","book":"1","chapter":"29","caption":"Lift Up and Sustain the Members by the Spirit of God","image_caption":"Stand up In full power as the leader<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"For an elder or high priest","end_context":"such a man and his purpose.","page_no":"187","page_content":"
For an elder or high priest to go about his assigned duties regularly, this is surely the trademark of a functional and productive ward effort. But for a stake president to firmly take charge of the gospel in his stake\u2013\u2013to go forth on foot all day long, every day, in full power as the leader; to bear down in pure testimony of God the Father, His Son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost before the people; to teach and preach the gospel, and to continuously lift up and sustain the members of his stake by the Spirit of God\u2013\u2013surely, there is nothing greater than this. The ground shakes before the feet of such a man and his purpose.<\/p>","image_name":"3_16_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"B1_Ch30_1.jpg","over_type":"BE","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"A Trip to Ogden","summary_id_org":"8","rand_no":"821581565","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"47","image_over":"2","item_no":"8"},{"summary_id":"9","book":"1","chapter":"29","caption":"The Savior Directly Supervised the Early Church Leaders","image_caption":"A constant light to them<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"As we see in the Doctrine and Covenants","end_context":"techniques to manage a group of saints.","page_no":"188","page_content":"
As we see in the Doctrine and Covenants, the Savior personally supervised the day-to-day operations of the startup of the Church, including the translation into English, the financing, and the publication of the Book of Mormon. He provided training on gospel principles, routinely answering both high-level and low-level questions. But most important of all, He was there among them. Through the daily revelations given to Joseph, He was a constant light to them; they could feel His presence and leadership in their midst. Thus, the D&C is a wonderful priesthood training manual demonstrating effective supervision techniques to manage a group of saints.<\/p>","image_name":"1_3_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"A Trip to Ogden","summary_id_org":"9","rand_no":"","bk_over":"1","ch_over":29,"image_over":"3","item_no":"9"},{"summary_id":"10","book":"1","chapter":"29","caption":"Is There a Ceiling of Performance for a Stake?","image_caption":"How great can our wards and<\/br>stakes truly become?","image_caption2":"","start_context":"As individual members of the","end_context":"impact upon the people he serves?","page_no":"188","page_content":"
As individual members of the Church, we receive patriarchal blessings. But what about a stake as a whole? What is its patriarchal blessing? Is there a ceiling of performance for a stake? Is there a limitation of blessings, set in stone or in writing by the Lord, for a group of Latter-day Saints gathered together in any size? As of this writing, there are approximately three thousand stakes and three thousand gifted stake presidents worldwide. Can just one person, a leader of some kind, make a dramatic impact upon the people he serves?<\/p>","image_name":"B1_Ch30_3.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"A Trip to Ogden","summary_id_org":"10","rand_no":"1750384244","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"10"}],"30":[{"summary_id":"11","book":"1","chapter":"30","caption":"A Young Man Seeks to Establish Zion in His Ward","image_caption":"A career opportunity just<\/br>perfect for him","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Choosing to lay aside the","end_context":"mankind—the building of Zion.","page_no":"193","page_content":"","image_name":"B1_Ch31_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"N","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"The Family Business","summary_id_org":"11","rand_no":"706345654","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"11"},{"summary_id":"12","book":"1","chapter":"30","caption":"Unlimited Power to Do Good Bestowed Upon Every Individual","image_caption":"A new career in life<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"All of these things had proceeded","end_context":"to do so by someone else.","page_no":"194","page_content":"
All of these things had proceeded forth normally in his life until one day, one particular principle of the gospel struck him with great power\u2013\u2013the principle that any member of the Church was capable of doing a lifetime of amazing things, even unspeakable things, in the gospel in his or her ward. He came to realize that there was unlimited power to do good bestowed upon every individual; that the gospel, absolutely, contained greater and more glorious things to find for anyone willing to pursue it fully in their personal time; and that, the more precious parts of the gospel could only be discovered on one\u2019s own, without being prodded, and without being told to do so by someone else.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"X","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"N","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"The Family Business","summary_id_org":"12","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"12"},{"summary_id":"13","book":"1","chapter":"30","caption":"Stability, Constancy of Purpose, and Quality of Delivery","image_caption":"A stone cast into a pond<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"With each passing year, there was","end_context":"by everyone in the community.","page_no":"197","page_content":"
With each passing year, there was also a cumulative effect of his visits upon the testimonies of the members of the stake; stability, constancy of purpose, and quality of delivery were creating this effect. President James Hancock was the tip of the spear. Bishops, ward leaders, and the full-time missionaries in the area all took notice, sensing that something special in the gospel was taking place. Like a large stone cast into the center of a pond, creating a ripple across the surrounding waters, the impact was felt by everyone in the community.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"N","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"The Family Business","summary_id_org":"13","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"13"}],"31":[{"summary_id":"14","book":"1","chapter":"31","caption":"A Successful Family is the Greatest Achievement","image_caption":"Happiness and success as a family<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"A mirror image of Zion itself","end_context":"greatest achievement of mankind.","page_no":"198","page_content":"
A mirror image of Zion itself, a family successful by the Lord\u2019s standards, built solidly upon precepts of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, is the greatest achievement of mankind.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"N","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Dream of the Pioneers","chapter_title":"Choosing a Career","summary_id_org":"14","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"14"}]},"2":{"1":[{"summary_id":"15","book":"2","chapter":"1","caption":"Fire, Energy, Peace and Love","image_caption":"It was as though James<\/br>was alone in the arena","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Moments before, he had been","end_context":"paying attention, took notice.","page_no":"206","page_content":"
Moments before, he had been drunk with anger, deep feelings of hatred that had been burning through his soul over the preceding few days. Now, however, there was a burning once more, but one of peace in his heart and fire in his bosom. A burst of energy had passed through his body on the inside while feelings of love washed over him on the outside. Fire, energy, peace and love\u2014what a wonderful mixture! <\/p>
<\/p>
The Spirit had manifested to him in power and great glory that God exists. James, now paying attention, took notice.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch1_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A Young Man and his Dreams","summary_id_org":"15","rand_no":"961498376","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"15"},{"summary_id":"16","book":"2","chapter":"1","caption":"The Father Distinct, the Son Distinct, the Spirit Distinct","image_caption":"The Father and Son are<\/br>distinct beings","image_caption2":"","start_context":"He had been made aware of the existence of","end_context":"Son distinct, the Holy Ghost distinct.","page_no":"207","page_content":"
He had been made aware of the existence of the Spirit and of the existence of God\u2014these were two different things. <\/p>
<\/p>
The Spirit coming upon him, testifying to him with a message of truth\u2013\u2013that was one thing. God the Father, sitting on a glorious throne in the heavens, and Jesus Christ there at His right hand, both having glorified bodies of flesh and bones\u2013\u2013that was another. The Father distinct, the Son distinct, the Holy Ghost distinct.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch1_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A Young Man and his Dreams","summary_id_org":"16","rand_no":"459879771","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"16"}],"2":[{"summary_id":"17","book":"2","chapter":"2","caption":"Duty is Called, Desire is Chosen","image_caption":"Duty is only the bare minimum<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Certainly, the concept of duty","end_context":"desire in the gospel and a true love of God.","page_no":"210","page_content":"
Certainly, the concept of duty in the Church is good and honorable. To receive a formal calling, to be explicitly told to do something in the gospel, this is the real-life motivation that often propels us forward in our faith. A sense of duty can also be helpful by making us feel remorse when we don\u2019t do our part. But we must always remember that our sense of duty in the Church is only the bare minimum\u2014the schoolmaster that brings us to Christ. While it is certainly possible that a member of the Church can be saved by being obedient to the commandments and by performing assigned tasks merely from a sense of duty, that would seem to be the most difficult and least likely way of entering the kingdom of God. For if one is obedient by a sense of duty only, his soul lacks charity. He has not developed a sense of desire in the gospel and a true love of God.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch2_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Duty is Called, Desire is Chosen","summary_id_org":"17","rand_no":"76892462","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"17"},{"summary_id":"18","book":"2","chapter":"2","caption":"Working Towards the Ideal in the Church","image_caption":"Duty is only the bare minimum<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Receiving a formal calling","end_context":"written in the first place.","page_no":"211","page_content":"
Receiving a formal calling, to be authorized to act, and to be part of the gospel team generally, is just the starting point. When we have faithfully done that which is asked of us, we have completed the minimum. That is where duty ends and desire begins. <\/p>
<\/p>
With desire, we do more than just that which is asked of us by Church leaders. We ponder in our minds the full list of opportunities to do good in the world that is there waiting for us, and then go to work on it. We take upon ourselves the responsibility for the salvation of the souls of men both at home and abroad. We strive to move closer to the ideal of the gospel in our lives\u2014the very purpose for which the rules and guidelines in the Church Handbook were written in the first place.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Duty is Called, Desire is Chosen","summary_id_org":"18","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"18"}],"3":[{"summary_id":"19","book":"2","chapter":"3","caption":"The Gift of Wealth","image_caption":"The precious stones were<\/br>brought before the Lord","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Charles’s situation was like","end_context":"What a wonderful grandmother she was!","page_no":"218","page_content":"
Charles\u2019s situation was like that of the Brother of Jared. A series of special stones had been laid out in front of him by Ellie through the gift of wealth. But these priceless stones needed to be polished in order to shine bright. This she accomplished through the childhood stories, and the imagery and powerful teachings they provided. These important lessons he had received at the feet of his grandmother helped him to know what to do\u2014that he should take the stones, polish them further on his own, and then present them to be touched by the finger of the Lord. Once this was accomplished, these beautiful stones could then illuminate his life and the lives of others. Through her special way of thinking and living, Ellie had been a role model to all her posterity, and most especially to Charles. Her feelings were now his feelings. Her testimony was now his testimony. What a wonderful grandmother she was!<\/p>","image_name":"2_2_005.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"5","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Episcopal Palace","summary_id_org":"19","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"3","image_over":"5","item_no":"19"},{"summary_id":"20","book":"2","chapter":"3","caption":"To Do More Than What is Required of a Righteous Man","image_caption":"The Three Nephites of<\/br>the Book of Mormon","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Although it must be said that","end_context":"approach he could take.","page_no":"218","page_content":"
Although it must be said that there was certainly nothing wrong with Charles staying put and enjoying this beautiful home for the long term. Ellie had dreamed for years of the joy the money might bring to him and her other grandchildren. It was his right under the law of the land, and also under the law of the Church. And certainly, he needed a home of some kind to live in, so why not this one? It also seemed like a good investment that could protect the money over the long term. <\/p>
<\/p>
But like John the Beloved, and like the Three Nephites of the Book of Mormon, Charles wanted to do more. To do something like the Savior would do. To do, without a moment\u2019s hesitation, something more than what might ordinarily be required of a righteous man. For surely, a righteous man could live happily in a home like this. A righteous man, if humble and obedient, could carefully thread a camel through the eye of a needle using his luxurious home as a launching pad for good works. And in so doing, he could be honored and respected by other righteous men like himself and still be saved in the kingdom of heaven. This was one approach he could take.<\/p>","image_name":"2_2_006.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"6","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Episcopal Palace","summary_id_org":"20","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"3","image_over":"6","item_no":"20"}],"4":[{"summary_id":"21","book":"2","chapter":"4","caption":"Puting Our Lives in the Hands of the Lord","image_caption":"A final prayer in the old house","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Kneeling together with her young","end_context":"Lord and trust in Him. ","page_no":"223","page_content":"
Kneeling together with her young girls, Melanie, Tina, and Shawna, she decided to have one last family prayer in the old house. A new life awaited them in their new ward. They needed to put their lives in the hands of the Lord and trust in Him.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch3_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"N","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Mother's Piano","summary_id_org":"21","rand_no":"1248157420","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"21"}],"6":[{"summary_id":"22","book":"2","chapter":"6","caption":"The Duration, Scope, and Breadth of Eternal Punishment","image_caption":"A sea of darkness<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"A veil was placed upon James's mind","end_context":"more frightful of the devil’s gifts.","page_no":"231","page_content":"
A veil was placed upon James's mind, temporarily hiding from him a knowledge of Jesus Christ and the Atonement. It was as though James was adrift in a sea of darkness that extended endlessly off on the horizon in all directions. He was lost. Aware of his sins and that he was unclean\u2014something that caused him great worry\u2014he was cut off from the presence of God. The duration, the scope, and the breadth of eternity were suddenly very important to him. He had always known in general terms what eternity meant; but now, that same eternity, when accompanied by punishment and absent the blessings of eternal life, seemed frightful\u2014a state of existence even more terrible than his direct encounter with evil only moments before.<\/p>
<\/p>
Comparing these two things, the coldness and binding influence of the devil upon him, and the misery of eternal punishment, James wanted neither. But the idea of being cut off forever from the presence of God was far worse. That was clearly the more frightful of the devil\u2019s gifts.<\/p>","image_name":"2_6_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Gall of Bitterness","summary_id_org":"22","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"6","image_over":"2","item_no":"22"},{"summary_id":"23","book":"2","chapter":"6","caption":"Enduring Terrible Thoughts as Part of a Terrible Reality","image_caption":"A sea of darkness<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"There was no escape","end_context":"vantage point of one’s own soul.","page_no":"231","page_content":"
There was no escape, not from something like this. He was enduring terrible thoughts as part of a terrible reality. Over the years, he had heard the words \"eternal punishment\" and \"endless punishment\" occasionally read from the scriptures in Sunday School lessons and in sacrament meeting. They had been curious words for James to hear at the time, but now they took center stage in his mind and wreaked havoc upon his emotions. Great was his anxiety in trying to understand the exact meaning of these words. Jesus Christ did not exist in this new reality; the concept of a redeemer of any kind was lost to him. James had the cries and worries of a young child\u2013\u2013one who suffers, who fears, and who doesn't understand. He was alone in the world; alone, that terrible place! He looked up at the ceiling amidst the darkness of the room, his eyes lacking all expression. He felt like a stranger, thinking that he didn\u2019t belong here amidst all this madness. <\/p>
<\/p>
His mind sought to escape his body. Maybe he was only dreaming? For in a dream a person can, in fact, awaken; then the dream ends, and the person can escape back to reality. But here, there was no dream; he was awake and alert, departure to a more favorable reality was not possible. The reality of the here and now was cast in stone, accompanied by a knowledge of the suffering that lay ahead\u2013\u2013the wages of sin in man's mortal existence. It was real, a real hell\u2013\u2013the horror seen from the vantage point of one\u2019s own soul.<\/p>","image_name":"2_6_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Gall of Bitterness","summary_id_org":"23","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"23"}],"7":[{"summary_id":"24","book":"2","chapter":"7","caption":"An Emotional Fire Consumes Us During Affliction","image_caption":"Enduring afflictions purifies our souls<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"When a person suffers,","end_context":"endure through the experience.","page_no":"233","page_content":"
When a person suffers, whether young or old, there is great sadness. This is especially true when the suffering is severe. There is an emotional fire, a kind of fever that consumes us during affliction. It burns through our soul, our minds, and even our relationships with others. But this burning can deliver us a more purified soul if we so allow. Relief in these critical moments can only be found if we look up into the heavens with an eye fixed singly upon the love of the Savior. Patience for the moment is required, and even more for the long-term. We must make the decision to put our hands back firmly on the handcart, to refocus our faith again in things not seen but true, to keep pushing ahead, and to endure through the experience.<\/p>","image_name":"2_11_006.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"6","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Miracles Through Affliction","summary_id_org":"24","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"27","image_over":"6","item_no":"24"},{"summary_id":"25","book":"2","chapter":"7","caption":"If We Can See the Affliction Through, Joy Will Come","image_caption":"The Lord will comfort us<\/br>and strengthen us","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We look into the heavens","end_context":"help us reach the main one along our path.","page_no":"234","page_content":"
We look into the heavens with hope at the onset of a tragedy. Normal life then resumes and the reality of the difficult trial ahead comes upon us in our weakened state. But if we can just wait and see the affliction through, joy will come. The Lord will look for the right moment to soften the affliction for us, causing the intense burning of the suffering to subside. He will strengthen us such that we can endure the trial. We should watch for that strengthening and seize upon it when it comes... like a second iron rod placed a little closer to us to help us reach the main one along our path.<\/p>","image_name":"2_7_001_1821471762.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Miracles Through Affliction","summary_id_org":"25","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"7","image_over":"1","item_no":"25"},{"summary_id":"26","book":"2","chapter":"7","caption":"Miracles Often Come for Us When We Serve Others","image_caption":"Providing relief to others<\/br>fills us with peace","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Miracles frequently come ","end_context":"they are experiencing.","page_no":"235","page_content":"
Miracles frequently come as we are engaged in assisting those suffering around us. When we pray for miracles on the behalf of others, even people we don\u2019t even know, we show the Lord that we are unselfish and that we are ready to assist Him in His work. Those who suffer might be near or far away. But in our show of concern, we will find peace. The unfairness of life and the pain we experience in our own lives will be directly and proportionally overcome by the relief we bring to others\u2013\u2013relief we can bring to the unfairnesses of life and the pain they are experiencing.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch7_3.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Miracles Through Affliction","summary_id_org":"26","rand_no":"7952387","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"26"}],"9":[{"summary_id":"27","book":"2","chapter":"9","caption":"The Gospel in Action","image_caption":"Learning what it is to be<\/br>a Mormon woman","image_caption2":"","start_context":"She might have also taken","end_context":"to be a Latter-day Saint woman.","page_no":"240","page_content":"
She might have also taken heart in something else\u2013\u2013the lessons learned on that eventful day would have a great influence upon the lives of her children. As she attended to James, her two older daughters, Melanie and Tina, had come to assist, learning at their mother\u2019s side how to care for someone in need at a critical moment. A powerful lesson of the gospel in action had been on display. She had taught her daughters what it was to be a Latter-day Saint woman.<\/p>","image_name":"2_9_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Blankets on a Cold Floor","summary_id_org":"27","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"9","image_over":"2","item_no":"27"}],"10":[{"summary_id":"28","book":"2","chapter":"10","caption":"The Strong Bond Between Them Was an Important Sanctuary","image_caption":"A fabulous team, mother and son<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"In a way, they both were","end_context":"were a fabulous team, mother and son.","page_no":"244","page_content":"
In a way, they both were struggling to fit into the world around them, William in his way and Christine in hers. Christine sought for acceptance in the world as a working, single parent just as William sought for acceptance from the kids at school. The strong bond between them became an important sanctuary, helping them both to cope with the difficulties each confronted outside the home. Their small family\u2013\u2013it was what it was. They loved each other, enjoyed spending much of their free time together, and had a wonderful family relationship. They were a fabulous team, mother and son.<\/p>","image_name":"2_10_003_1452713519.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A Humble Family in Need","summary_id_org":"28","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"10","image_over":"3","item_no":"28"}],"11":[{"summary_id":"29","book":"2","chapter":"11","caption":"It Was Possible for Her and the Latter-day Saints to Coexist","image_caption":"A brilliant mind and a great teacher<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"All of this, however, was","end_context":"Latter-day Saint and non-Latter-day Saint alike.","page_no":"247","page_content":"
All of this, however, was in the past. Since that time, the last twelve years of her life to be exact, she had entered the teaching profession at an Ogden junior high school. There, year after year, she had come to know many Latter-day Saint young adults in her classes and through them, had learned a lot more about the Church and the type of people who comprised it. She had also accumulated a good number of close, older Latter-day Saint friends and, through them, had come to better understand and appreciate the culture of Utah. She had even gone to church on one occasion to see what it was like, and with that, her harsh stance against the Church softened further. As the years passed, little by little, she came to the conclusion that it was possible for her and the Church to coexist in life and even to prosper together. Given her great abilities and love for the students she taught at school, it was not long before she became one of the most highly regarded teachers in the entire school district, beloved by all parents, Latter-day Saint and non-Latter-day Saint alike.<\/p>","image_name":"2_11_001_2053869370.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"English Class","summary_id_org":"29","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"11","image_over":"1","item_no":"29"},{"summary_id":"30","book":"2","chapter":"11","caption":"Standing Up on One's Own, Acting With Courage and Faith","image_caption":"His countenance was radiant,<\/br>like the prophet Abinadi","image_caption2":"","start_context":"In his meek and humble way","end_context":"tormenters and was no longer afraid.","page_no":"250","page_content":"
In his meek and humble way, William had acted on his own with courage and faith. Although small in stature, he now stood tall above all the other students in the class. He was not an imposing figure. He was not any kind of eloquent speaker. And his knowledge of gospel principles was general and unsophisticated. Nevertheless, at this important moment, he arose and came forth in great power. His countenance was radiant, like the prophet Abinadi standing before King Noah, or like Stephen standing before the Sanhedrin. Filled with the Spirit, he faced his tormenters and was no longer afraid.<\/p>","image_name":"2_11_005_744147537.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"5","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"English Class","summary_id_org":"30","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"11","image_over":"5","item_no":"30"}],"12":[{"summary_id":"31","book":"2","chapter":"12","caption":"How Can What I Did Ever Be Undone?","image_caption":"Anguish for past mistakes<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"She immediately recalled","end_context":"which she had fought for so long.","page_no":"252","page_content":"
She immediately recalled the editorial writings and newspaper columns she had written in her younger years, those that had been highly critical of the Church. Watching William crumple up the paper was almost like he had seized the vicious writings of hers and crumpled them up instead. <\/p>
<\/p>
How can what I did ever be undone? <\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
Had there been a large stone nearby, like the one close to Jean Valjean on that winter night when he realized there was no longer any hope to track down the young lad, Little Gervais, to restore to him the forty-sou piece he had stolen, she might have doubled over and fell upon it in anguish, her fists tightly clenching her hair, her eyes weeping burning tears, and her mouth exclaiming, \u201cI am a wretch!\u201d <\/p>
<\/p>
But the anguish for past deeds could be dealt with later. This was a moment for one to be astonished! The voice had been beautiful! It was more delightful than anything she had ever experienced in her life. The collection of books she had at home on the subjects of philosophy, biology, and physics, and the assumptions within them which generally challenged the existence of God, had just been wiped out by a few tears. The power of God was upon her. There was no doubt now about the existence of God and the authenticity of the Church against which she had fought for so long.<\/p>","image_name":"2_12_001_1571544702.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A Lovely Pink Dress","summary_id_org":"31","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"12","image_over":"1","item_no":"31"}],"13":[{"summary_id":"32","book":"2","chapter":"13","caption":"A Brutal War of Attrition Between Faith and Despair ","image_caption":"Overcoming the bitter cycles<\/br>of depression","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The bout with depression caused","end_context":"very sensitive to the suffering of others.","page_no":"255","page_content":"
The bout with depression caused his emotions to spiral downward at times, occasionally breaching the divide between sanity and insanity. These were critical moments of his life where the salvation of his soul was in play. Was life worth living? That was an unsettled question in his mind. <\/p>
<\/p>
There was no quick or obvious solution to his situation. He just had to wait it out and hope for a better day to come. A brutal war of attrition was being waged between his faith in God and the feelings of despair that constantly dogged him. But as each cycle of depression came to an end, there was always a recovery period that came after. This reinvigorated him with hope, increased his energy, and gave him a day or two where he could feel good again. His life followed this pattern for a while: first, depression, and the need to just wait things out; second, a recovery period, where some relief was provided\u2014like a fever that finally dissipates; and then third, a few days of hope, when he felt a little better about the future, and could laugh and smile more. These cycles of depression that played out made his faith stronger and moved him closer to God. In addition, the limit of what he was able to endure increased each time, making any new cycles of depression that came later more manageable. It was as though he were running emotional wind sprints of one hundred yards each, then doing some two-twenties and four-forties, except that the intense exercise was going on inside his soul. In the end, it made him very sensitive to the suffering of others.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch6_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A Roaring Fire","summary_id_org":"32","rand_no":"1981707191","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"32"},{"summary_id":"33","book":"2","chapter":"13","caption":"To Do Something Good and to Be Something Good","image_caption":"Create a bellows like Nephi<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"He was human. In spite","end_context":"for the rest of the day. ","page_no":"256","page_content":"
He was human. In spite of his faith, and in spite of the strong support group of people around him, there were setbacks at times, and he would succumb to depression and temporarily lose his bearings in life. The Spirit attended to him often, but not always. So, on those days, he was left to battle through mortality an hour at a time. This required that James learn to become the catalyst himself, to find a way out of the depression he felt\u2014to do something good and to be something good. He had to learn to stand on his own two spiritual feet and develop the means to ignite passion and energy within himself. Like Nephi, he needed to create a bellows with which to blow upon and create a roaring fire, to create something out of nothing in the world using the spark of his own free will as the catalyst. The more often he started fires within himself, igniting passion, the happier he was. <\/p>
<\/p>
This was the ongoing battle every day, James needing to rekindle the fire each morning from the glowing embers left over from the night before. Through his morning prayers, he blew upon the embers to create a new flame. That done, he could bask in its warmth and enjoy the burning sensation for the rest of the day.<\/p>","image_name":"2_13_002_491985500.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A Roaring Fire","summary_id_org":"33","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"13","image_over":"2","item_no":"33"},{"summary_id":"34","book":"2","chapter":"13","caption":"A Spontaneous Generation of Love and Faith","image_caption":"We are born free<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We are born free","end_context":"sad or evil in nature.","page_no":"257","page_content":"
We are born free, as in the wonderful 1960's movie and theme song by that name. The intelligence we have as human beings allows us to act on our own and do good independent of the other forces around us. We can spawn a spontaneous generation of love and faith in the gospel just as we might otherwise initiate thoughts that are sad or evil in nature.<\/p>","image_name":"2_6_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A Roaring Fire","summary_id_org":"34","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"13","image_over":"3","item_no":"34"}],"14":[{"summary_id":"35","book":"2","chapter":"14","caption":"Reading, Pondering, and Praying","image_caption":"Serious prayer<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"As James learned to pray","end_context":"and one prayer at a time. ","page_no":"261","page_content":"
As James learned to pray with gratitude in his heart, it brought tears to him. The presence of tears required that he wipe his eyes at the conclusion of his prayers to avoid notice by others. Prayer was a personal thing to him, an emotional outreach and an emotional cleansing, so he wanted to keep his crying to the Lord confidential. Praying out loud in public, and within the family, required a different skill set, something he would develop more in the years ahead. So for now, he was mighty in prayer, but only when he was alone. <\/p>
<\/p>
Becoming totally immersed, the end of a prayer often required that he reorient himself to the outside world again and to what he had been doing beforehand. Opening his eyes and seeing the scriptures in front of him, he would find his place and then read the next verse or two\u2013\u2013starting the pondering and praying process all over again. Reading, pondering, praying; praying, pondering, reading\u2013\u2013they were three different things, but one in purpose. It was sometimes difficult for James to notice when any one of these three activities he was doing had stopped and another had begun. He was discovering the gospel one scripture, one pondering session, and one prayer at a time.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch14_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Serious Prayer","summary_id_org":"35","rand_no":"407663040","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"35"}],"15":[{"summary_id":"36","book":"2","chapter":"15","caption":"A Righteous Ward Can Become a Light to the Church","image_caption":"The ward included everyone<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The ward actually included everyone","end_context":"Zion in the greater community would be born.","page_no":"264","page_content":"
The ward actually included everyone\u2013\u2013active members, inactive members, part-member families, and nonmembers\u2013\u2013and each person's soul was certainly equal in value to his own. In addition, the ward itself, by extension, was not physically limited to its boundaries. As he walked along, James noticed that there was nothing magical or different about a street lying inside or outside the ward. A young man like himself could easily walk across the boundaries into an adjoining ward and find people with similar needs. There were stronger wards and weaker wards in the Church. There were stronger stakes and weaker stakes. One ward\u2019s priesthood holders could help those of another. A strong stake could help mentor a weaker stake. Indeed, the power of just one ward in the Church, as a role model, and as a catalyst, seemed infinite. A righteous ward could become a light to the whole Church, able to lead hundreds or thousands of other wards to greatness. Such a ward might export momentum, excitement, and success in the gospel to all of the adjoining wards, thereby overflowing its physical boundaries and magnifying its calling as an organizational unit of the Church. The same was also true of a stake. The great faith and miracles experienced by members in one stake might become like a stone cast into the middle of a pond, creating powerful ripples across all of the adjoining stakes in the area. In this way, Zion in the greater community would be born.<\/p>","image_name":"2_7_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A Vision of a Ward","summary_id_org":"36","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"15","image_over":"3","item_no":"36"}],"17":[{"summary_id":"37","book":"2","chapter":"17","caption":"A Feeling of Oneness in the Family","image_caption":"Good parenting builds unity<\/br>in the family","image_caption2":"","start_context":"For this, we would","end_context":"source of great joy to them. ","page_no":"270","page_content":"
For this, we would have to give much of the credit to their parents Ashley and Carole. They had done much to build this feeling of oneness in the family from the first day of their marriage. As father and mother, the fruits of their hard work would always be a source of great joy to them.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch8_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Testimony of James","summary_id_org":"37","rand_no":"99522453","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"37"}],"18":[{"summary_id":"38","book":"2","chapter":"18","caption":"The Savior's Silhouette Was Ablaze Upon the Waters","image_caption":"Rays of light in the heavens<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"“In the second dream","end_context":"rays of light into heaven.”","page_no":"272","page_content":"
\u201cIn the second dream, I was alone in the water of a great sea or ocean. Dark clouds and the fierce winds of a storm created large and powerful waves all around me. I was doing all I could to save myself, trying to stay afloat as the waves crashed down upon me. But I hoped and prayed with all my heart that I might be saved, putting my faith in Jesus Christ to deliver me. When I did this, the storm calmed, the winds subsided, and I was no longer afraid. Rays of light filtered down through an opening in the clouds, and looking up into this light, I was able to see directly into heaven and behold the throne of God. It was glorious! The beauty of the heavens was unspeakable! Even there, alone in a vast ocean, the Lord had been mindful of me, knowing exactly who I was and where I was.<\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cEncompassed by the light, the Savior descended from the sky above until he was standing upon the waves just a few feet from me. His countenance was radiant; his silhouette was ablaze, like a flash of lightning upon the waters, in perfect contrast to the dark and turbulent waters that had almost engulfed me. Reaching out his hand, he raised me up from the sea. From there, we ascended together through the rays of light into heaven.\u201d<\/p>","image_name":"2_18_002_1589150328.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A River and an Ocean","summary_id_org":"38","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"18","image_over":"2","item_no":"38"}],"19":[{"summary_id":"39","book":"2","chapter":"19","caption":"Seek Higher Levels of Excellence in Our Wards","image_caption":"Families become uplifted and inspired to come to church<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"“As we learn more and more,”","end_context":"exaltation in the celestial kingdom.","page_no":"276","page_content":"
\u201cAs we learn more and more,\u201d continued James, \u201cabout how to bring the light of the gospel into people\u2019s homes, they will be uplifted and inspired to come to church on Sundays, and to more frequently attend the temple. It\u2019s more than just doing our regular callings\u2013\u2013that\u2019s only the starting point. In doing these basic assignments, we perform our duty like that which was done under the Law of Moses in ancient times. We tend to go about our basic duties in the Church today like the Israelites did back then and, as a result, we find ourselves having virtually all of our wards in the Church struggling at the fifty-cent lawn level.<\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cReaching the one-dollar, the two-dollar, or the three-dollar levels in a ward has more to do with what our hearts are like inside\u2014our meekness and love of God as individuals, our testimonies, our faith, and the long-term goals in the gospel we aspire to. We can achieve higher levels of excellence in our wards, but only if we have strong desires for the things of God. If we each take upon ourselves the responsibility to help our wards develop and grow stronger, many more members of our wards, if not all, may qualify for exaltation in the celestial kingdom.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch19_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Declaration of Intent","summary_id_org":"39","rand_no":"1300221138","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"39"},{"summary_id":"40","book":"2","chapter":"19","caption":"A Vision for Zion Based on What is Practical and Realistic","image_caption":"It was the year 1850 again<\/br>in the Ogden valley","image_caption2":"","start_context":"It had been nearly impossible to get","end_context":"legacy of the early pioneers.","page_no":"278","page_content":"
It had been nearly impossible to get James to stop talking all evening. His mind was overflowing with ideas and an excitement for the future. He had presented to his family a simple, but humble vision of what a prototype of Zion in the ward might be. <\/p>
<\/p>
In that respect, it was like the year 1850 once again. The city of North Ogden was being established by the early pioneers, and the layout of the city was being envisioned for the first time. It was not a city being planned with streets of gold or something that quickly surpasses reality. No, his vision for the city was based on what was practical and realistic for the gospel in these latter days. It was a city with streets paved with asphalt, and sidewalks of cement, but the Spirit of God flowed over them both nonetheless, like a river overflowing its banks. It was a new Passover in a sense, but one where the firstborn, the second born, and all children born into a family were blessed with the desire to build Zion-like congregations of the restored gospel upon the grand legacy of the early pioneers.<\/p>","image_name":"2_19_005.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"5","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Declaration of Intent","summary_id_org":"40","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"19","image_over":"5","item_no":"40"}],"21":[{"summary_id":"41","book":"2","chapter":"21","caption":"Pondering Amidst the Beautiful Gardens of the Temple","image_caption":"The old Ogden Temple<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"With these questions","end_context":"everything would be provided.","page_no":"282","page_content":"
With these questions in mind, and finding himself alone amid the beautiful gardens, he leaned forward on the bench and bowed his head in silent prayer. <\/p>
<\/p>
The answers to his questions didn\u2019t come immediately, but as he continued praying and pondering that afternoon, the Spirit in time bore witness to him. He knew that, in spite of his weaknesses, he had been selected by the Lord for this important calling and the means to accomplish everything would be provided.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch9_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A Young Bishop","summary_id_org":"41","rand_no":"56181931","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"41"}],"22":[{"summary_id":"42","book":"2","chapter":"22","caption":"The Wondrous Operations of the Spirit","image_caption":"An Aaronic Priesthood holder<\/br>meets with the bishop","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We can also see that James","end_context":"a much greater level of happiness.","page_no":"284","page_content":"
We can also see that James had become accustomed to the presence of the Spirit. He was ready, waiting, and watching for His arrival. For what good is a gift of God to us if we then fail to appreciate it and make use of it once bestowed? James considered these wondrous operations of the Spirit as chief among the things he looked forward to and enjoyed every day. The Spirit\u2019s presence was, more than anything, a manifestation of the love God had for him. <\/p>
<\/p>
Assuredly, the Spirit came as a powerful witness of the truthfulness of James\u2019s testimony to those around him. But He came for other reasons as well\u2013\u2013as a friend, as a mentor, as a teacher, and as a comforter. He came, also, as the reader may remember, as a bellows. Blowing upon the fire of James\u2019s spirit, the Spirit inspired him to continue his march forward in the gospel. Taking note of the Spirit\u2019s presence as he talked, James marveled at the overall system that was in play and how the Spirit complemented him in what he was doing. It was a team effort. He was the point guard trying to feed the ball into the post for the Spirit to do an easy layup. How great to be sitting here talking with the Bishop about such things! He missed basketball assuredly, but what he was experiencing here on this day was far better\u2013\u2013a much greater level of happiness.<\/p>","image_name":"2_22_001_854493578.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Interview with James","summary_id_org":"42","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"22","image_over":"1","item_no":"42"},{"summary_id":"43","book":"2","chapter":"22","caption":"A Young Man Delighting in the Things of God","image_caption":"Gifted young people of the world<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Thus, there was an obvious","end_context":"powerful and his spirit was powerful.","page_no":"284","page_content":"
Thus, there was an obvious question passing through his mind: Where did all of this amazing stuff come from? Like Carole, he was astonished at how this immense spiritual development had come to James so early in life. There were celebrated young people in the world with great musical talents, impressive knowledge in science and mathematics, amazing athletic abilities, knowledge of languages and how to spell difficult words, tremendous acting, singing or dancing prowess, and great chess knowledge. But what he was seeing here with James was the greatest of all\u2014a young man delighting in the things of God, armed with a powerful testimony of Jesus Christ, and having words given to him to speak by the Holy Ghost. <\/p>
<\/p>
The ward had assisted James in his growth, nourishing him year by year in the primary and youth programs. But now, in hearing the words spoken by this seventeen-year-old boy, Bishop Tyler had a sense of a disproportional and unequal response coming back. The ward had invested a few talents in James, but he was giving back talents tenfold or even a hundredfold. James's ideas, his goals, and the strong testimony emanating from his soul were incredible! He was relating experiences and talking about things well beyond his age. His words were powerful and his spirit was powerful.<\/p>","image_name":"2_22_003_480223831.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Interview with James","summary_id_org":"43","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"22","image_over":"3","item_no":"43"}],"23":[{"summary_id":"44","book":"2","chapter":"23","caption":"A Young Man Volunteering Himself to the Ward","image_caption":"What can a young man do?<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Surely, everything had been","end_context":"why they had come to him.","page_no":"290","page_content":"
Surely, everything had been done in proper order. Nobody had circumvented the priesthood process. So was there a problem still?<\/p>
<\/p>
It wasn\u2019t so much a feeling that there was a problem here, but a concern that they were now entering into an unknown territory of the gospel. If James had done something wrong, and was going about things in an improper way, it would be easy\u2013\u2013he would just counsel James, correct him in whatever it was that he was doing wrong, and then send him off towards repentance. A bishop is well trained to handle that kind of scenario. But here, it was the opposite. James was doing everything correctly and had a wonderful attitude. The problem was that he, the bishop, was not trained to deal with a situation like this. A young Aaronic Priesthood holder was volunteering himself to the ward with desires to do unimaginably good things for the rest of his life. But there was no official calling or ordination on the books he had to give him. On the other hand, James was not asking for one either. He just wanted to learn how to make the ward better and was offering his time in that regard. And both James and his parents had wanted him to check first with the priesthood leadership in the ward before doing anything. That\u2019s why they had come to him.<\/p>","image_name":"2_13_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Bishop Tyler's Dilemma","summary_id_org":"44","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"33","image_over":"2","item_no":"44"},{"summary_id":"45","book":"2","chapter":"23","caption":"Concern for the Welfare of the Souls of Others","image_caption":"The Prophet Jacob of the<\/br>Book of Mormon","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Like Jacob of the Book of Mormon","end_context":"act upon that duty.","page_no":"291","page_content":"
Like Jacob of the Book of Mormon, James accepted the fact that he was responsible for the spiritual welfare of others, for the souls of those who exist within the Church as well as those who exist without. A layman's knowledge and a sense of duty in the gospel had thrust these ideas upon him, enough at least to prick his conscience; desire in the gospel, and a love for his fellow man, had caused him to act upon that duty.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch23_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Bishop Tyler's Dilemma","summary_id_org":"45","rand_no":"1002033969","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"45"}],"24":[{"summary_id":"46","book":"2","chapter":"24","caption":"Who Will Step Forward to Assist in This Great Earthly Endeavor?","image_caption":"if one wagon train turns back, shouldn't we send another?<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Putting these questions","end_context":"in this greatest of all earthly endeavors?","page_no":"293","page_content":"
Putting these questions into his mind, the Spirit had rebuffed his general way of thinking. For there was indeed a duty in the priesthood, shared by all, to establish Zion in all of our wards and stakes. <\/p>
<\/p>
The first response by the Spirit was still the operable one, allowing the good instincts he had as the bishop to go forward. But the desire of the Lord was for much more than that. The goals articulated by James were by all means proper and what the Lord had been continuously hoping for from all members and leaders of the Church since 1830. <\/p>
<\/p>
Would James lose interest and change his mind over time? That was the wrong question to ask. <\/p>
<\/p>
The correct question was this: Who among the members of the Church will step forward to assist James in this greatest of all earthly endeavors?<\/p>","image_name":"2_24_002_279955658.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Next Wagon Train to Zion","summary_id_org":"46","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"24","image_over":"2","item_no":"46"}],"25":[{"summary_id":"47","book":"2","chapter":"25","caption":"Greater Joy in Life than Wealth and Luxuries","image_caption":"Filled with love for everyone,<\/br>Audrey was the catalyst","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The need for a priesthood blessing","end_context":"full life ahead of her still intact.","page_no":"296","page_content":"
The need for a priesthood blessing had caused him to start thinking about his personal worthiness before God. It came upon him suddenly, like a thief in the night. Was he prepared? The answer, unfortunately, was no. The newly constructed deck and his beautiful ranch home in Nibley, these were all very nice to have\u2014things he had worked hard for many years to secure for his family. But there was little joy in these things today. The needs of someone else were foremost on his mind.<\/p>
<\/p>
The reader may recall similar circumstances in the life of Charles White. He had been desirous to help James, hoping for a miracle of some kind. In the hours immediately following the piano-moving accident, he found himself alone, looking up expressionless at God from within his fine North Ogden home. Already in life, he had concluded that a large, luxurious home was not a means toward salvation, thereby embracing the powerful teachings of his grandmother Ellie, as well as those of his Father in Heaven. And from that time forward, he had watched and waited for an opportunity to consecrate himself more fully before the Lord. The tragedy of James became the moment for him to spring into action, and he had been ready with both desire and the money to assist. But money by itself was not enough to heal James; so Charles, physically and emotionally exhausted as he was from the day\u2019s events, had cast himself upon his bed in serious prayer, reaching with his heart towards heaven for a miracle. <\/p>
<\/p>
In like manner, Lawrence had been touched by the Spirit over the preceding several hours, filling him with the desire to heal Audrey through a priesthood blessing. A change in his life had occurred; he now realized there was a greater joy to be obtained than that which came from all the luxuries he had accumulated over the years. He had a vision of this little girl running in full spirit through the grass outside her Millville home\u2013\u2013happy, joyful, playing games with the other children, and with the hope of a full life ahead of her still intact.<\/p>","image_name":"2_10_004.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Sister Audrey Stewart","summary_id_org":"47","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"25","image_over":"4","item_no":"47"},{"summary_id":"48","book":"2","chapter":"25","caption":"A Young Miracle Worker Sent Down From Heaven","image_caption":"Filled with love for everyone, Audrey was the catalyst<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Audrey was the catalyst","end_context":"departed the mission field.","page_no":"297","page_content":"
Audrey was the catalyst. As part of her mission in life, this wonderful little girl would soon go among the people performing mighty works of faith as a young miracle worker sent down from heaven. Lawrence and Norah were the first of many souls she would bless in her abbreviated life. Only six years old, she was a young lady missionary serving in the Millville, Utah mission. Hidden from everyone on earth, she had worn a small nametag from the day she was born that read \u201cSister Stewart, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.\u201d <\/p>
<\/p>
Filled with love, filled with the Spirit of God, and having the faith of a child, she easily exceeded her mission president\u2019s quota of teaching opportunities and convert baptisms. <\/p>
<\/p>
Her homecoming to heaven would be joyful, but there would be tears among those she left behind on earth as she departed the mission field.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Sister Audrey Stewart","summary_id_org":"48","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"48"}],"26":[{"summary_id":"49","book":"2","chapter":"26","caption":"Grateful for All She Had Been Given in Life","image_caption":"A child who is grateful and willing<\/br>to share with others","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Moving to the bed","end_context":"to other children.","page_no":"301","page_content":"
Moving to the bed, Audrey put her arms around the bear and felt its softness close to her cheek. How she loved this new panda bear! And with her best friend and older sister having returned home, able to see it, too, this was a moment in time to cherish. <\/p>
<\/p>
It was things like this that made Audrey special. She appreciated all that she had been given in life. Her collection of toys and playthings, now with the large panda bear included among them, was not unlike those had by other children in Millville, except that she took good care of them, put them away when not playing with them, and kept them organized. Especially mindful of her possessions, she watched over them\u2014faithfully executing her stewardship as a child born into the Church, with all of its inherent responsibilities and duties. What her parents wanted, and what the Lord wanted, was simply that she enjoy her toys and appreciate them. Audrey happily complied, becoming a good example to other children.<\/p>","image_name":"2_26_001_488178695.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Audrey's Toys","summary_id_org":"49","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"26","image_over":"1","item_no":"49"},{"summary_id":"50","book":"2","chapter":"26","caption":"A Child Who Shares is the Most Beautiful of All","image_caption":"A child who is grateful and will to share with others<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"As children, and as adults","end_context":"will be saved in the kingdom of God.","page_no":"301","page_content":"
As children, and as adults, we can\u2019t help but notice the toys of others. This sometimes causes us to long for things we don\u2019t have, things that are perhaps outside of our reach. Striving to obtain many of these toys can become a lifetime effort, often leading to disappointment in our lives whether we obtain them or not. We may even have good intentions in what we are doing, trying to provide all the things in life we can for our children and spouse\u2013\u2013things that maybe we ourselves didn\u2019t have growing up. That\u2019s not to say that the pursuit of wealth or the pursuit of excellence in our careers is a bad thing; no, just the opposite. Members of the restored Church of Jesus Christ often exceed those of other religions (and those who don\u2019t belong to any religion) in many categories of success, financial or otherwise. But the key to our happiness, both in this life and the next, comes down to this\u2014what do we plan to do with our wealth and possessions? The answer to this question has a large bearing on whether or not we will be saved in the kingdom of God.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"6","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Audrey's Toys","summary_id_org":"50","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"50"}],"27":[{"summary_id":"51","book":"2","chapter":"27","caption":"Beth's Anxiety and Anger Cause Her to Murmur","image_caption":"Mourning the death of Audrey<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We prayed day and night","end_context":"The suffering would soon pass.","page_no":"308","page_content":"
We <\/i>prayed day<\/i> and night for <\/i>Y<\/i>ou to help the doctors make her better! <\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
Audrey believed in miracles! I believed in miracles! <\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
She cried furiously until she was exhausted, undergoing an intense level of suffering like that of James when he endured the anxiety of eternal punishment in the hospital room. <\/p>
<\/p>
Rolling over on her back, she looked up at the ceiling, as though the ceiling itself were the heavens and God was right there to feel her anger. She cast a bitter and mean look upward as though shaking her fist at God with her eyes. She succeeded in landing a blow. The meanness and angry look were very hurtful to her Father in Heaven as He watched over her at this critical time. It was a horrible thing for her to do, but it was understandable given the circumstances. He was patient and filled with mercy towards her. The suffering would soon pass.<\/p>","image_name":"2_11_005.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"5","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Mother and Daughter","summary_id_org":"51","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"27","image_over":"5","item_no":"51"},{"summary_id":"52","book":"2","chapter":"27","caption":"Counteracting the Impulses of Evil","image_caption":"Mourning the death of Audrey<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"She grabbed her scriptures","end_context":"to be at peace inside, and to repent.","page_no":"309","page_content":"
She grabbed her scriptures, the Bible and the Triple Combination, from off the nightstand, as if to cast them down to the floor and strike one final blow at God. But thinking better of it, she only squeezed the two books hard in her hands and then set them back down beside her\u2014a first act of faith on her part, counteracting the impulses of evil that had come upon her. It was as though she had faced up to the powerful winds of emotion that had beset her and then abruptly changed course and done the right thing, using her wisdom and free agency as a child of God to do good. Suddenly the catalyst, she brought good into the world from within herself, frustrating both evil and the devil, who otherwise might have had cause to laugh at her and discuss further plans between them. <\/p>
<\/p>
Beth sat up on the bed and looked around the room. The immediate impact of her crying and anger was that nothing in the world around her had changed. The walls, the large window, the curtains, the bedposts, the closet where her clothes hung, the lamp next to Audrey\u2019s bed\u2013\u2013all of these things were still there, unaffected by Audrey\u2019s passing. The room had an aura of permanence about it, seemingly extending an invitation to her now as its lone occupant, to go on living, to be at peace inside, and to repent.<\/p>","image_name":"2_11_005.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Mother and Daughter","summary_id_org":"52","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"52"}],"28":[{"summary_id":"53","book":"2","chapter":"28","caption":"The Spirit Touches One's Thoughts With Light and Truth","image_caption":"Interacting with the Holy Ghost<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Pondering this question","end_context":"what was really going on.","page_no":"317","page_content":"
Pondering this question, her mind was soon filled by the Spirit with a series of new thoughts. These were not audible pronouncements by the voice of the Spirit passing through her mind as she was accustomed to; no, the Spirit was interacting with her mind, touching her thoughts with light and truth, showing her and teaching her concepts as she pondered over the matter. It might have seemed to her that she was coming up with all of these ideas and thoughts herself, but she knew better\u2014she was thinking with the Spirit. The powerful reasoning, and the dynamic way in which her thoughts were being written upon, like quick and gentle bursts of energy, left her no doubt as to what was really going on.<\/p>","image_name":"2_28_001_944479352.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Answer Comes","summary_id_org":"53","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"28","image_over":"1","item_no":"53"}],"30":[{"summary_id":"54","book":"2","chapter":"30","caption":"What Great Miracles Are Possible for Us Living Today?","image_caption":"Joseph would want greater<\/br>miracles for us today","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Is all therefore done?","end_context":"today is the only bottleneck.","page_no":"326","page_content":"
Is all therefore done? Is there nothing great and marvelous still in store for those of us living today? The power of God has been revealed anew in these latter days; therefore, let us ask ourselves: Have the heavens closed since the martyrdom of Joseph Smith, limiting us now, many generations later, to only a certain, diminished category of revelations and miracles? <\/p>
<\/p>
The answer to this question is obvious\u2013\u2013countless revelations and miracles have occurred in the Church since the days of Joseph, and they still pour down upon us from the heavens in great numbers today. God continues to be a God of miracles, a God of revelations, a God of prophets and apostles, a God of miraculous healings, and a God of spectacular spiritual gifts, bringing to pass a marvelous work and a wonder among the people of the earth.<\/p>
<\/p>
If Joseph were here standing among us today, conversing with us about the early years of the Church, would he desire that we see his time as the pinnacle of greatness in the gospel? Or would he insist to us in the strongest possible language that greater revelations, miracles, and manifestations from God than these are still to come for us? <\/p>
<\/p>
Joseph would probably look circumspectly into the heavens and declare that what was revealed to the earth in his time was only a small fraction of all the revelations of God (i.e., scriptures) that are staged in the heavens, ready to be sent down to us at a moment's notice. The faith of the members of the Church today is the only bottleneck.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch12_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"In Greater Numbers","summary_id_org":"54","rand_no":"2080323228","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"54"},{"summary_id":"55","book":"2","chapter":"30","caption":"Miracles Are Bestowed Upon Us Through Faith","image_caption":"Faith leads to miracles<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The occurrence of a single","end_context":"and outside the church.","page_no":"327","page_content":"
The occurrence of a single miracle, of just one faith-promoting event in our lives, is a very special thing, and is representative of the great love our Heavenly Father has for us. Much better, though, is when there is a pattern of miracles, such that blessings flow down continually upon us day by day, or even real time, moment by moment. When that happens, we have become the catalyst in the world, showing forth mighty faith in God and able to control the powers of heaven. Under such circumstances, we are a great benefit to our fellow man, both inside and outside the Church.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch12_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"In Greater Numbers","summary_id_org":"55","rand_no":"1619658686","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"55"},{"summary_id":"56","book":"2","chapter":"30","caption":"He Feels the Power of the Priesthood Flow Through Him","image_caption":"The simple faith of a child<\/br>is what is needed","image_caption2":"","start_context":"On the other hand","end_context":"He is a righteous king of Zion in the church.","page_no":"329","page_content":"
On the other hand, the progression of a righteous boy to a righteous young man, to a righteous missionary in the mission field, to a righteous husband and father, and then to a righteous man of God in the Church with a vision of Zion\u2014he who is as powerful as a lion in his faith and leadership capabilities among his fellow men\u2013\u2013such a man is ready to move mountains when he lays his hands upon the sick or afflicted. <\/p>
<\/p>
A man who has reached this level of desire in the gospel will have regained all the faith he had previously as a child and is surely ready to bring to pass a miracle. He is ready to perform a priesthood blessing, whether to heal, to provide comfort, or to pronounce untold blessings. The words he speaks come easily... he fears nothing. He places his hands on the individual with his heart and mind carried away into a vision of heaven, imagining and drawing power from a glorious scene of God the Father sitting upon His throne and the Lord Jesus Christ at His right hand. He feels the power of the priesthood flow through him like the power of the sun. He understands the legacy of the priesthood to which he has been ordained, and which goes back to the beginning of time. He acts simultaneously in both strength and love. He has already become a leader in his ward by nature of the royal priesthood that he holds and the power of God that is in him; any formal callings or assignments he has been given in the Church are simply appendages to that. His desire is to consecrate all he has to the building up of the kingdom of God on earth. He is a righteous king of Zion in the Church.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch12_3.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"In Greater Numbers","summary_id_org":"56","rand_no":"77428537","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"56"}],"31":[{"summary_id":"57","book":"2","chapter":"31","caption":"Faith at the Family Level","image_caption":"Everyone praying and hoping<\/br>for the same thing","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Faith at the family","end_context":"of the gospel on earth.","page_no":"332","page_content":"
Faith at the family level\u2013\u2013when all members of a family, including the little children, are praying and hoping for the same thing\u2013\u2013is among the most beautiful manifestations of the gospel on earth.<\/p>","image_name":"2_31_001_73043361.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Rewards of Faith","summary_id_org":"57","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"31","image_over":"1","item_no":"57"},{"summary_id":"58","book":"2","chapter":"31","caption":"The Intermediate Rewards of Faith","image_caption":"The intermediate rewards as<\/br>music is composed step by step","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We see an example","end_context":"temporal and spiritual goals simultaneously.","page_no":"332","page_content":"
We see an example of this principle in a composer creating a symphony. Great works such as these require that the composer take a project management approach to his composition. The effort will involve many tasks and take months or even years to complete. Along the way, he or she will also experience many intermediate rewards as beautiful musical phrases are sounded on instruments for the first time. Inspiration from God may also occur during the creative process, giving the composer satisfaction in seeing inspiration and artistry coming together in the composition. The final reward for the composer is great when the symphony is performed in public for the first time, but the totality of all the intermediate rewards that came before is usually much greater. A composer receives these partial payments along the way in the creation of music, an artist in the development of a painting, an author in the writing of a book, a homebuilder in the construction of a house, a film director in the production of a movie, a missionary in the teaching of an investigator prior to baptism, and so on. <\/p>
<\/p>
The same principle also holds true for us as we await family-level revelation or a miracle from heaven. The hope we have in this effort can be a useful tool, helping us to spot the little signs provided by the Lord along the way, and to know we are on the right track. As we work closely with God on such a project, and experience His participation and presence firsthand in our affairs, our faith will grow stronger, and we will be comforted with the knowledge that we are on the road to eternal life. In this way, we can work on both our temporal and spiritual goals simultaneously.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch31_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Rewards of Faith","summary_id_org":"58","rand_no":"1290148255","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"58"}],"32":[{"summary_id":"59","book":"2","chapter":"32","caption":"A Family Spiritual Journal","image_caption":"The family historian<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"So, we should keep two","end_context":"with things of secondary importance.","page_no":"335","page_content":"
So, we should keep two family journals, one as the spiritual record of the family, and a second to record all the other experiences of our lives. The choice as to what merits being recorded in one versus the other is something parents can determine over time as entries are made and perspective gained. As the family historian (like Mormon in a sense), able to revise and edit prior writings, and to add precious commentary, context, and gospel insight into family events, the mother or father can decide which things will be of most value to their children and posterity. The goal should be to create a spiritual record of the family experiences that is priceless and meaningful, rather than occupy space with things of secondary importance.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch32_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Family Spiritual Journal as a Liahona","summary_id_org":"59","rand_no":"1120508499","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"59"},{"summary_id":"60","book":"2","chapter":"32","caption":"A Vision of Zion in One's Soul","image_caption":"The family historian<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Descriptions of the new feelings","end_context":"stability for our families.","page_no":"339","page_content":"
Descriptions of the new feelings we have for Zion, and our desires to serve God and man, will probably be among the most beautiful writings we will ever include in our spiritual journal. A vision of Zion in one\u2019s soul can lead to revelations and miracles of all kinds and can, most assuredly, give us the help we need to provide food, housing, physical security, and financial stability for our families.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Family Spiritual Journal as a Liahona","summary_id_org":"60","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"60"},{"summary_id":"61","book":"2","chapter":"32","caption":"Light and Knowledge Through Family-Level Revelation","image_caption":"Priesthood blessings benefit<\/br>from advance preparation","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The words pronounced as","end_context":"don't need to guess.","page_no":"339","page_content":"
The words pronounced as we bless one who is sick ring powerfully in the ears of the Lord when accompanied by strong and sincere desires for the establishment of Zion in our homes and communities. Such desires increase our motivation to perform a priesthood blessing in the first place; but they can also, in the blessing\u2019s aftermath, help us to receive further light and knowledge through family-level revelation so we can better understand the Lord\u2019s will in the matter and don't need to guess.<\/p>","image_name":"2_32_005_1563732353.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"5","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Family Spiritual Journal as a Liahona","summary_id_org":"61","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"32","image_over":"5","item_no":"61"},{"summary_id":"62","book":"2","chapter":"32","caption":"Revelation is a Miracle Already","image_caption":"Revelation helps us endure trials<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The peace and confidence","end_context":"it is that ails us.","page_no":"339","page_content":"
The peace and confidence that come to us by knowing the mind and will of God in a matter may end up being more valuable to us than the miracle itself we are seeking. Revelation from God is a miracle already. Empowered with this knowledge, we can more easily endure a trial, and be able to endure it over a long period of time if necessary. We can sit back, watch ourselves grow in faith, and have more certainty for a successful resolution, ultimately, in whatever it is that ails us.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Family Spiritual Journal as a Liahona","summary_id_org":"62","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"62"},{"summary_id":"63","book":"2","chapter":"32","caption":"A Liahona for Our Families","image_caption":"Lehi and the Liahona<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The family spiritual journal is like a","end_context":"literally, a Liahona for our family.","page_no":"340","page_content":"
The family spiritual journal is like a bridge to take us from where we are today to where we want to be in the future. It is, literally, a Liahona for our family.<\/p>","image_name":"2_32_001_2115333214.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Family Spiritual Journal as a Liahona","summary_id_org":"63","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"32","image_over":"1","item_no":"63"}],"33":[{"summary_id":"64","book":"2","chapter":"33","caption":"A Perfect Fit for Every Mission of the Church","image_caption":"Seizing upon the opportunity<\/br>to serve a mission","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Only nineteen years old","end_context":"mission of the church.","page_no":"341","page_content":"
Only nineteen years old, James seized upon the opportunity to serve a mission. He was prepared to stand up and lead other missionaries to greatness\u2014as a captain over ten, as a captain over hundreds, or as a captain over thousands. He possessed a set of leadership skills as defined by the Lord\u2019s standards, not the world\u2019s. His vision of the five-dollar lawn\u2014the building up of one's ward and stake into something glorious\u2014was a perfect fit for every mission of the Church.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch13_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Mission Call","summary_id_org":"64","rand_no":"962350282","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"64"}],"34":[{"summary_id":"65","book":"2","chapter":"34","caption":"The Main Course of a Delicious Spiritual Feast","image_caption":"Savoring great spiritual events just<\/br>as one enjoys a Thanksgiving feast","image_caption2":"","start_context":"James entered the mission","end_context":"he had already set out to do.","page_no":"344","page_content":"
James entered the mission field having already received significant on-the-job training, and with an appetite for the things of God unlike other boys his age. Serving a mission, being ordained an elder, and attending the temple for the first time, all of these things were for most young men like eating a plate of nutritious vegetables, something they partook of to maintain good spiritual health, to be obedient to that which was asked, and to prepare themselves for life\u2014a pattern for the youth of the Church that has been very successful.<\/p>
<\/p>
James, however, experienced all of these things differently. Being more spiritually prepared, he partook of them as if they were the main course of a delicious gourmet meal followed by a sweet and tasty dessert. Filled with fire by the Holy Ghost, he feasted upon them with desire, savoring every morsel as it came along. He looked forward to spending all day, every day, doing the work of the Lord, the work of building Zion, which the mission call offered to him. The only drawback was that he would be transplanted to some other location to do this work and not be able to do it at home. Furthermore, he would be focused primarily on the mission of preaching the gospel more directly and not on the mission of perfecting the saints. Nonetheless, it was very close to the work he had already set out to do.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch34_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A Good Landing Place","summary_id_org":"65","rand_no":"1608421226","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"65"},{"summary_id":"66","book":"2","chapter":"34","caption":"Missionaries That Have a Vision of Zion in Their Hearts","image_caption":"A missionary with a<\/br>vision of Zion","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Time is key to the building","end_context":"in the church.","page_no":"345","page_content":"
Time is key to the building of Zion in our wards and stakes, both at home and abroad. Missionaries that come off the plane with a vision of Zion in their hearts will always desire more time\u2013\u2013time to build up and perfect a single spot of ground; time to work with the members there; time to get to know well as many nonmember, inactive member, and mixed-member families as they can; and lots of time to work with the converts they bring in to help them grow strong in their wards. How wonderful it would be if missionaries were no longer counting the months and days until they return home but, instead, were feeling rushed to complete all of their exciting Zion-like goals in a specific mission area before they \"have to leave and go home.\" This is the ideal of missionary work that we are seeking in the Church.<\/p>","image_name":"2_13_005.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"B2_Ch13_2.jpg","over_type":"BE","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"A Good Landing Place","summary_id_org":"66","rand_no":"676956997","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"34","image_over":"2","item_no":"66"}],"35":[{"summary_id":"67","book":"2","chapter":"35","caption":"A Ward Should Be a Good Landing Place","image_caption":"The waters of Mormon<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The title of our church","end_context":"Mormon is our goal.","page_no":"348","page_content":"
The title of our church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, is visible to all passersby upon the beautiful buildings we have built or leased around the world. But a good landing place is not a building only; we need our wards to be worthy of the holy name they carry. The oneness in all things found in the people at the waters of Mormon is our goal.<\/p>","image_name":"2_35_001_788205349.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Waters of Mormon","summary_id_org":"67","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"35","image_over":"1","item_no":"67"}],"38":[{"summary_id":"68","book":"2","chapter":"38","caption":"The Ideal is Not Something You Are Born Into ","image_caption":"Beth meets James at an LDS Institute dance in Ogden<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"In doing this, Beth","end_context":"to pass in their lives.”","page_no":"355","page_content":"
In doing this, Beth was following the counsel of her mother. As she left home earlier that evening, Barbara had said to her, \u201cThe ideal is something that everyone needs to create for themselves and bring to pass in their lives.<\/i>\u201d<\/p>","image_name":"2_38_001_1301540522.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Beth Arrives from Millville","summary_id_org":"68","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"38","image_over":"1","item_no":"68"}],"40":[{"summary_id":"69","book":"2","chapter":"40","caption":"Free to Choose for Ourselves","image_caption":"Romance and love in courtship<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"A common theme of this book","end_context":"we go about the work of the Lord.","page_no":"366","page_content":"
A common theme of this book is duty versus desire<\/i>. In the story of James and Beth thus far, the reader might take a moment to consider the differences between an arranged marriage\u2013\u2013a marriage based on duty, tradition, obedience, family honor, or parental wishes\u2013\u2013and a marriage where both individuals are free to choose for themselves and are filled with desire towards one another. We see and understand this principle plainly in the courtship of a man and a woman, and we should look for it as well when we go about the work of the Lord.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch15_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Blessings of Zion in Marriage","summary_id_org":"69","rand_no":"495514237","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"69"},{"summary_id":"70","book":"2","chapter":"40","caption":"True Desire Encompasses All Aspects of Duty","image_caption":"Romance and love in courtship<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Duty is called","end_context":"first and perfection later.","page_no":"366","page_content":"
Duty is called, desire is chosen\u2014desire for each other, and a desire for the things of God. Desire in the gospel is like a beautiful romantic relationship, where love blossoms and happiness is found at every turn. Duty in gospel service is like an arranged marriage, serving our purposes in the Church at a fundamental level, but lacking the essence of love. There should be more than duty in marriage, just as there should be more than just duty in the gospel. True desire encompasses all aspects of duty that a couple should expect from one another in marriage. Humility, desire, and charity\u2014all of these have duty at their core, but then they go much further, advancing us towards excellence in gospel living first and perfection later.<\/p>","image_name":"2_15_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Blessings of Zion in Marriage","summary_id_org":"70","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"70"},{"summary_id":"71","book":"2","chapter":"40","caption":"A Period of Watching and Waiting to Consecrate Oneself","image_caption":"A vision of Zion in our hearts<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"A period of watching","end_context":"enjoy them in the present.","page_no":"369","page_content":"
A period of watching and waiting will be common for any person who is striving to live the law of consecration, and who aspires to help in the establishment of Zion in his or her ward. We saw this in the story of Charles White as he pondered his grandmother Ellie\u2019s teachings, contemplating the things he might do with the money she had given him. <\/p>
<\/p>
During this time of waiting, however, James and Beth were still able to enjoy most, if not all, of the blessings that come to a married couple who have fully consecrated themselves to the work of the Lord. How was this possible? These blessings came to them early because of their desires and their plans for the future. The two of them shared a common vision of what a ward of the Church\u2014their ward\u2014might become one day. They dreamed in their hearts; they treasured up inside themselves the beautiful things they would do together in the gospel once their temporal affairs were set in order. They prayed often, always searching for the means to accomplish these things, and looking forward to when that time might come. Would the opportunity present itself next year? In three years? How soon before we can start? Their manner of thinking, feeling, and hoping allowed them to draw blessings from the future\u2014from the mere vision of Zion in their hearts only\u2014and enjoy them in the present.<\/p>","image_name":"2_15_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Blessings of Zion in Marriage","summary_id_org":"71","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"40","image_over":"3","item_no":"71"}],"41":[{"summary_id":"72","book":"2","chapter":"41","caption":"Standing Idly By While So Many Suffer Around Us","image_caption":"Help lift others and bring<\/br>them greater happiness","image_caption2":"","start_context":"He and Beth had reached","end_context":"table of food and drink.","page_no":"374","page_content":"
He and Beth had reached a certain level of happiness, but he could see that it was an empty, self-oriented happiness in some ways. As a priesthood leader, he had served others as best he could, but it was a service provided mostly from a distance. After counseling or assisting a person in need for an hour or so, he could then leave and go home to his comfortable life again, largely shielded from the pain they suffered through every day. He was a mere witness of events only, standing idly by while so many suffered around him.<\/p>
<\/p>
There had to be a bigger role for him to play... that was his thinking. He needed to find a way to bless the lives of all the ward members in things spiritual as well as things temporal. He could not live through their trials for them or prevent them from bringing trials upon themselves by their own choices, but he could lift them and help them to find solutions to their problems, thereby bringing them greater happiness. Through faith in Jesus Christ and through righteousness, he could control the powers of heaven and have a large impact upon their lives. Taking upon himself the role of punchbowl monitor for the ward, he could help serve up a magnificent table of food and drink.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch41_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"The Road to Zion","summary_id_org":"72","rand_no":"1408865538","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"72"}],"42":[{"summary_id":"73","book":"2","chapter":"42","caption":"The Accountability for the Souls of Mankind is the Same for All","image_caption":"A disproportionate burden falls<\/br>upon a few members","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Improved technology and the","end_context":"much is expected from all of us.","page_no":"379","page_content":"
Improved technology and the splitting up of ward clerk duties have helped improve the lives of the Bob Cratchits in our midst. But it has accomplished much more than that. It has helped us learn an important truth\u2014Church work that undermines an individual\u2019s opportunity to spend quality time with his or her family frustrates the Lord\u2019s goals in the gospel. If that, ultimately, is the outcome of our routine Church service, then we have gone one step forward and two steps backward. And if a disproportional burden of duties falls upon just a few members in a ward, then all of us have lost sight of the responsibilities every member has within the covenant of baptism. For surely, every member of the Church has the very same responsibility as even the President of the Church to establish the kingdom of God on earth and to bring about Zion. The accountability and stewardship for the souls of mankind is the same for all. It\u2019s certainly true that where much is given, much is expected. But it is also true that every one of us has been given much. The Atonement of Christ easily qualifies as \u201cmuch.\u201d Therefore, much is expected from all of us.<\/p>","image_name":"2_42_001_934999849.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Honey, When Will You Be Home for Dinner?","summary_id_org":"73","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"42","image_over":"1","item_no":"73"},{"summary_id":"74","book":"2","chapter":"42","caption":"Come Home Speedily After Work on Time for Dinner","image_caption":"Hurry home for dinner!<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"One of the most important goals","end_context":"for the evening dinner.","page_no":"379","page_content":"
One of the most important goals of the gospel of Jesus Christ is that all children on earth grow up having the constant companionship of not only the Spirit, but of a mother in the home\u2013\u2013to watch over, love, and care for them. The father\u2019s role in the workplace, and within the context of Church service, is to love the Lord, to love his wife and family, and to love and serve his fellow man. But more than anything, it is to come home speedily after work to be on time for the evening dinner.<\/p>","image_name":"2_42_002_1197046445.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Honey, When Will You Be Home for Dinner?","summary_id_org":"74","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"42","image_over":"2","item_no":"74"},{"summary_id":"75","book":"2","chapter":"42","caption":"Home is Where the Primary Work of the Church is Done","image_caption":"Hurry home for dinner!<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The work we do in the home","end_context":"miracles and further establish Zion.","page_no":"380","page_content":"
The work we do in the home is the primary work of the Church. We raise families, we learn to live the gospel, and we build long-lasting relationships with our friends and neighbors. Once that important work is accomplished every day, we are then armed with the Spirit to go out into our places of work, into our communities, into our Sunday services, into the mission field, and into the many exquisite Latter-day Saint temples worldwide to work miracles and further establish Zion.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"15","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Honey, When Will You Be Home for Dinner?","summary_id_org":"75","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"75"}],"43":[{"summary_id":"76","book":"2","chapter":"43","caption":"A Home Filled With the Spirit of God","image_caption":"Fruits of the Spirit plucked<\/br>from the tree of life","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The atmosphere inside","end_context":"light and truth of the Holy Ghost","page_no":"381","page_content":"
The atmosphere inside their home was quickened by the Spirit, calming angry emotions when needed and enhancing the happy ones. Whispers and kind gestures were used more often to communicate with one another\u2014as they awoke first thing in the morning and late at night as they went to sleep. Thus, their home was often filled with smiles, friendly grins, and quiet laughter rather than a lot of unnecessary noise. <\/p>
<\/p>
All the fruits of the Spirit, bountifully available, became more commonplace among them: feelings of joy in their hearts, burnings in their bosoms, great wisdom and knowledge filling their minds. Family-level revelations poured down upon them from heaven through dreams and visions, through whisperings of the Spirit, through their ponderings of the scriptures, and through family and personal prayers. Thus, their home was filled with the light and truth of the Holy Ghost<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch16_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Making the Little Things Nice","summary_id_org":"76","rand_no":"779527458","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"76"},{"summary_id":"77","book":"2","chapter":"43","caption":"Coexisting With the World","image_caption":"The light of the gospel<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The Spirit shielded them","end_context":"their family in the gospel.","page_no":"382","page_content":"
The Spirit shielded them not only at home, but everywhere they went as they performed their daily tasks. All around them, there were great commotions and disturbances in the world: wars, rumors of wars, earthquakes, floods, storms, political scandals, petty crimes and heinous crimes being committed, and great suffering among the populations of the earth. But the light of the gospel provided them with peace and protection, allowing them to coexist with the world and still raise their family in the gospel.<\/p>","image_name":"B2_Ch16_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Making the Little Things Nice","summary_id_org":"77","rand_no":"1000911841","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"77"},{"summary_id":"78","book":"2","chapter":"43","caption":"The Church Had Everything He Needed","image_caption":"Being there in the ward for the<\/br>long term is what is needed","image_caption2":"","start_context":"James continued in his calling","end_context":"the mainstream of the church.","page_no":"385","page_content":"
James continued in his calling as the elders quorum president, performing the duties he was called to do and always striving to do them well. He focused first on the temporal needs of the quorum members to see what was possible to do to help them, and then afterward turned his attention to their spiritual needs. He supervised the quorum closely every day. He counseled, he visited, he taught lessons, he preached the gospel, he bore testimony, he did service projects, he gave blessings, he fasted and prayed, and in all of these things he worked through the organization of the Church, for he loved the Church and saw no need to work around it in any way. It was all right there; the Church had everything he needed. The establishment of Zion in the ward didn\u2019t require him to pursue some other path in life that deviated in any way from the mainstream of the Church.<\/p>","image_name":"2_16_006.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"6","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Making the Little Things Nice","summary_id_org":"78","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"43","image_over":"6","item_no":"78"}],"44":[{"summary_id":"79","book":"2","chapter":"44","caption":"The Little Things First; The Big Things Next","image_caption":"Great blessings of heaven were bestowed upon them<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Perhaps the thinking","end_context":"started to occur in their lives.","page_no":"388","page_content":"
Perhaps the thinking of those around them was that for James and Beth to spend this amount of time and effort working towards such a goal in the gospel, their lives beforehand must have been devoid of anything else interesting, important, or fun. For why else would they have chosen this path in life? And the assumption, by extension, was that they would then ultimately tire of or see the folly of their labors and come to the realization that the ideal of Zion was a fool\u2019s errand. Thus, the expectation was that, at some point, they would need to correct themselves\u2014keeping their noses clean with more traditional family goals in the Church\u2014and just be content with what normally happens in a typical ward\u2019s execution of the gospel.<\/p>
<\/p>
This was the assumption of many, but, in fact, something much different was happening to them. <\/p>
<\/p>
As the years passed, the Lord looked upon James and Beth and what they were doing and decided to bless them beyond anything they could have ever imagined. As we have seen, the little things in their lives were quickened by the Spirit. But it was not long until much bigger things\u2013\u2013greater blessings than ever before\u2013\u2013started to occur in their lives.<\/p>","image_name":"2_16_008.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Big Things Start to Happen","summary_id_org":"79","rand_no":"","bk_over":"2","ch_over":"44","image_over":"1","item_no":"79"},{"summary_id":"80","book":"2","chapter":"44","caption":"Revelation Can Occur at Any Time of the Day","image_caption":"Great blessings of heaven were bestowed upon them<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Through a whisper,","end_context":"journal and enjoyed them fully.","page_no":"389","page_content":"
Through a whisper, they each, individually, could hear the voice of the Spirit speaking to them. It became so commonplace that it was as though the Lord was right there with them a few feet away every night. But each time it happened, it was still a slight shock to their bodies. Taking naps during the day or lying down to sleep at night was often the time when these spiritual events happened. But not always, for such things could occur at any time of the day and in any frequency. They were feeling and enjoying, moment by moment, family-level revelation and manifestations of the love of God\u2013\u2013little phrases, little comments, little teachings by the Lord on every subject imaginable. They recorded all these things in their family spiritual journal and enjoyed them fully.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"The Story of James","chapter_title":"Big Things Start to Happen","summary_id_org":"80","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"80"}]},"3":{"1":[{"summary_id":"81","book":"3","chapter":"1","caption":"Eternal Marriage is the Crowning Achievement of the Gospel","image_caption":"The Lord loves the covenant<\/br>of marriage","image_caption2":"","start_context":"As we seek for ","end_context":"gospel of Jesus Christ. ","page_no":"395","page_content":"
As we seek for perfection and the ideal in the gospel, we must first seek for the ideal in marriage. Marriage, families, and the gospel are like three interlocking gold rings, linked together in an unbreakable chain. And with marriage, two individuals are linked together eternally with rings once more and, indeed, more supremely. The male and female characteristics we have been blessed with on earth are not somehow discarded arbitrarily at death; marriage and families were always intended by God to be eternal. For just as the Lord loves little children, so He loves the covenant of marriage.<\/p>
<\/p>
Eternal, celestial marriage, like Zion itself, is the crowning achievement of the gospel of Jesus Christ.<\/p>","image_name":"3_1_004.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Leonard and Carina Hunter","summary_id_org":"81","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"1","image_over":"4","item_no":"81"}],"2":[{"summary_id":"82","book":"3","chapter":"2","caption":"Initiating and Sustaining Romantic Relationships","image_caption":"Dating opportunities we have depend on many factors<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"It just seems to me that","end_context":"greater numbers than men.","page_no":"396","page_content":"
\u201cIt just seems to me that initiating and then sustaining a romantic relationship is dependent on so many factors that we often can\u2019t control: our physical makeup; our race and place of birth; our age; our available friend and family associations; our proximity to populations of active Church members; the free agency of other individuals we encounter along the way; our family reputation and standing in the Church and community; our social opportunities related to education, jobs, business, travel, recreation, and group events; our skills and talents in life; the parental care and family relationships we have as we grow up; and most certainly, our inherent fears and weaknesses as individuals. These environmental factors create an unequal footing for many to bear, and women bear this inequality every day more acutely and in greater numbers than men.<\/p>","image_name":"3_2_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The White Robe of the Savior","summary_id_org":"82","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"2","image_over":"1","item_no":"82"},{"summary_id":"83","book":"3","chapter":"2","caption":"The Beautiful Mormon Culture of Temple Marriage","image_caption":"The beautiful Mormon culture<\/br>of temple marriage","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The beautiful Latter-day Saint culture","end_context":"thirst was for companionship.","page_no":"397","page_content":"
The beautiful Latter-day Saint culture of temple marriage had sent out wedding invitations in the mail to many members of the Church in recent years, but Jackie and Diane had yet to receive theirs. Their brand of suffering was like that of persons who are poor and have no food to eat or fresh water to drink, except that their hunger and thirst was for companionship.<\/p>","image_name":"3_2_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The White Robe of the Savior","summary_id_org":"83","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"2","image_over":"2","item_no":"83"},{"summary_id":"84","book":"3","chapter":"2","caption":"The Humble, the Meek, and the Pure in Heart","image_caption":"A transforming event in Jackie's life<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Ultimately, however, a new day did","end_context":"once to a higher spiritual plane.","page_no":"399","page_content":"
Ultimately, however, a new day did come for Jackie. It was something very simple, a \u201csmall means\u201d as it were, and something that the proud and more sophisticated persons of the world might consider to be a thing of naught. But for the humble, the meek, and the pure in heart of Heavenly Father\u2019s children, simple and small things are capable of bringing great joy into their lives. Jackie was one of these. For her, what happened on this day became a transforming event in her life. It lifted her thoughts, her emotions, and her faith all at once to a higher spiritual plane.<\/p>","image_name":"3_2_004.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The White Robe of the Savior","summary_id_org":"84","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"2","image_over":"4","item_no":"84"}],"3":[{"summary_id":"85","book":"3","chapter":"3","caption":"Great Miracles and Showers of Blessings Occur in a Ward","image_caption":"The windows of heaven<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Great miracles and showers","end_context":"pours down upon them.","page_no":"402","page_content":"
Great miracles and showers of blessings occur in a ward as storm clouds gather and momentum builds toward perfection. The windows of heaven open and great blessings rain down upon us; for surely, the windows of heaven are not geographically limited to the St. George area, nor are they unique to the law of tithing alone. This shower of blessings is also particularly good for the needy\u2013\u2013those who stand off alone in the shadows of the ward. They, as wonderfully dramatized in the final scenes of Ben Hur with Miriam and Tirzah coming out of the cave, thirst the most and enjoy the taste of the refreshing rain water as it pours down upon them.<\/p>","image_name":"3_2_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A Powerful Storm of Love and Faith","summary_id_org":"85","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"2","image_over":"1","item_no":"85"}],"5":[{"summary_id":"86","book":"3","chapter":"5","caption":"Because of Righteousness, Death Was Sweet Unto Him","image_caption":"His spirit moved on to a new place<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Death, the final curtain","end_context":"view of the heavens.","page_no":"405","page_content":"","image_name":"3_3_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"B3_Ch3_1.jpg","over_type":"BE","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Scene of the Funeral","summary_id_org":"86","rand_no":"390483745","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"5","image_over":"1","item_no":"86"},{"summary_id":"87","book":"3","chapter":"5","caption":"Experience the Sights and Sounds of Heaven!","image_caption":"A vast congregation of angels<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Up and above, the heavens open","end_context":"life immediately changes.","page_no":"406","page_content":"
Up and above, the heavens open like a scroll\u2014a vision of the eternal world stretches forth before you. As far as the eye can see, there is a vast congregation of angels in heaven. A host of these angels descend, joyful in song, joyful in celebration. <\/p>
<\/p>
With great excitement, Reed shouts with joy at the top of his voice.<\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cListen, see, and feel! Experience the sights and sounds of heaven!<\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cHear the bells! Hear the choir of angels! Behold, the kingdom of God!\u201d<\/p>
<\/p>
A few seconds looking into heaven and you are changed forever. All the important questions of your life have been answered. What you see here is not found in books, other than the great visions and testimonies of the prophets found in the scriptures. You can see what they have seen. Your innermost desires are quickened. What you want in life immediately changes.<\/p>","image_name":"3_3_004.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Scene of the Funeral","summary_id_org":"87","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"5","image_over":"2","item_no":"87"}],"6":[{"summary_id":"88","book":"3","chapter":"6","caption":"The Worry Over Layoffs and Plant Closures","image_caption":"Real people with real fears<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"But this was no child’s game","end_context":"would soon prove to be well-founded. ","page_no":"413","page_content":"
But this was no child\u2019s game. These were real people with real fears. It was a somber time for everyone employed at the plant, but the greatest fear of all was had by the longer-standing employees of the factory, especially the many working moms, both married and single. These mothers depended heavily on the modest income and health care benefits their jobs provided in support of their families. What would they do if they lost their jobs? It was a time for worry, a time for family prayer, a time to seek the comfort of the Spirit in their lives, for the uncertainty of what lay ahead was always foremost in their minds. Already they had the worries of the working poor. But now they were confronted with the prospect of having no income at all. Arriving to work in the morning, and leaving to go home at night, the worry was great for everyone. It was unclear whether anyone at all in the plant would still have a job once the results of the \u201coperations review,\u201d as it was called, were announced. As for Mark, he felt particularly vulnerable given his high salary, a fear that would soon prove to be well-founded.<\/p>","image_name":"3_4_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Layoffs at the Plant","summary_id_org":"88","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"6","image_over":"1","item_no":"88"}],"7":[{"summary_id":"89","book":"3","chapter":"7","caption":"Feeling Embarrassed Before the Lord","image_caption":"The wonderful timing of<\/br>the Comforter","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Within seconds, the Spirit filled","end_context":"was wallowing in self-pity. ","page_no":"419","page_content":"
Within seconds, the Spirit filled his body, starting first within his bosom. The words \u201cBe patient\u201d suddenly passed through his mind, startling him. As one very experienced in the workings of the Spirit, Mark was grateful for, but not really surprised by the wonderful timing of the Comforter. Surely, the Holy Ghost always comes when we need Him, even when we are not as deserving as we should be! Ordinarily, the presence of the Spirit would have filled him with delight, but in this case, as a man of God, he felt embarrassed before the Lord because of his murmuring. His first instinct was to cry, but this was not a time for crying. He was having a moment like that of Nephi, questioning himself as to why he was wallowing in self-pity.<\/p>","image_name":"3_7_002_1795928266.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A Place in the Mountains","summary_id_org":"89","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"7","image_over":"2","item_no":"89"}],"8":[{"summary_id":"90","book":"3","chapter":"8","caption":"Working Hard Every Day to Achieve the Impossible Dream","image_caption":"Working alongside the operators<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Thus, Mark had been newly","end_context":"achieve the impossible dream. ","page_no":"421","page_content":"
Thus, Mark had been newly called to the work. He would go out and about the work of the plant every day, to work alongside the operators, the technicians, and the supervisors of the work centers. His example on the job would be important to inspire others on the new business philosophy. <\/p>
<\/p>
He quickly saw the obvious parallel in his new assignment to what he had seen President Hancock doing every day in the North Ogden Stake, except that the work here was more technical and business-oriented in nature. He saw that through the reorganization of the plant, and his reassignment to a new position, the Lord was providing him an opportunity to better learn the techniques of hands-on supervision, a skill set that could serve him well as leader of the Springville East Stake in the building of a prototype of Zion. The plant was giving him the opportunity to test out the concepts of the five-dollar lawn. He would be like President James Hancock. He would be the young boy cutting the lawn of the Countess, working hard every day to achieve the impossible dream.<\/p>","image_name":"3_8_003_1517821067.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A New Type of Leader","summary_id_org":"90","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"8","image_over":"3","item_no":"90"},{"summary_id":"91","book":"3","chapter":"8","caption":"A Friend, a Counselor, a Supervisor, an Advocate, a Trainer","image_caption":"Working Alongside the Operators<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"At first the operators were","end_context":"help them do their jobs better.","page_no":"422","page_content":"
At first the operators were apprehensive. Here was a top executive of the plant regularly dedicating time to look at each of their individual processes on the production line. Obviously, even for only ten or fifteen minutes at a time, there was a little pressure to avoid making mistakes as he watched. But soon, as the operators became more familiar with Mark and had a chance to meet with him and understand his goals, they became more comfortable having him around. They saw him more as a helper\u2013\u2013someone they could ask for assistance at any time. He was an extra resource, a friend, a counselor, a supervisor, an advocate, a trainer, a person who could help fix things on their machine when a tech wasn\u2019t available. He was there to assist in solving any kind of problem at their workstations and to help them do their jobs better.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A New Type of Leader","summary_id_org":"91","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"91"},{"summary_id":"92","book":"3","chapter":"8","caption":"Fixing Both the Big Problems and the Small Problems ","image_caption":"Making sure things are fixed<\/br>and then stay fixed","image_caption2":"","start_context":"He supervised every detail ","end_context":"top level of the business.","page_no":"423","page_content":"
He supervised every detail of the plant operations on the floor\u2013\u2013the machines, the operators, the flow of labor steps, the supervisors, the materials, and the computer systems. Everything in the plant was under his careful watch. He was always on the lookout for the big problems and the obvious things, and then, once identified, he would follow through to make sure they were fixed, and that they stayed fixed, checking afterward that the supervisor had updated the process documentation. The greater improvements in the plant, however, came through his identification and correction of the hundreds of very small and subtle problems. Each small item by itself was not significant, but line upon line, and day after day, there was a cumulative effect\u2014a tightening up of many small individual processes was occurring. These smaller improvements led to improvements of the larger processes of the plant, as well as those at the top level of the business.<\/p>","image_name":"3_8_005_1268987469.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"5","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A New Type of Leader","summary_id_org":"92","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"8","image_over":"5","item_no":"92"},{"summary_id":"93","book":"3","chapter":"8","caption":"The True Harvest in Business","image_caption":"Improvement in people's lives<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The amazing operating results","end_context":"truly matters in business.","page_no":"425","page_content":"
The amazing operating results of the company were a great accomplishment, but ultimately, the true harvest was in the happiness and the improvement in the lives of the people who worked at the plant. Machines, processes, profits, and wealth have no end in themselves. At the end of the day, it is the people and how they live their lives that truly matters in business.<\/p>","image_name":"3_8_006_209771575.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"6","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A New Type of Leader","summary_id_org":"93","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"8","image_over":"6","item_no":"93"}],"9":[{"summary_id":"94","book":"3","chapter":"9","caption":"An Infusion of Inspired Leadership and Spiritual Capital","image_caption":"Productivity soars in the plant<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The Spirit had taken note of","end_context":"delivery, and customer satisfaction.","page_no":"426","page_content":"
The Spirit had taken note of Mark\u2019s righteous desires and the decisions in his life that had brought him this far. The Spirit had looked at his years of experience as a manager, at his technical skills and the style of his leadership, and at the manner in which he, as a righteous man, had blessed the lives of his coworkers. Having seen all of these things, the Spirit intervened, greatly multiplying his works and bringing to pass a wonderful quickening effect throughout the plant. Through his own efforts, carefully watching over every detail of the plant, Mark had accomplished much on his own. But as he had gone about his work in the strength of the Lord, greater things, even astonishing things, had happened. Through an infusion of inspired leadership and spiritual capital, the plant had attained unheard-of levels of productivity, quality, automation, on-time delivery, and customer satisfaction.<\/p>","image_name":"3_5_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Blessings and More Blessings","summary_id_org":"94","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"9","image_over":"1","item_no":"94"}],"11":[{"summary_id":"95","book":"3","chapter":"11","caption":"A Transforming Beauty Inherent to the Christmas Season","image_caption":"Jesus Christ was the beautiful painting for all to see<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The spirit of Christmas","end_context":"the gospel of Jesus Christ.","page_no":"430","page_content":"
The spirit of Christmas had been there from the onset; inside and outside the house, there had been a special atmosphere and a transforming beauty inherent to the season. But in the performance of this Christmas hymn, the women had accomplished something more\u2013\u2013inviting the Spirit of the Lord to the gathering and touching the hearts of even the smallest children, like little lion cubs hearing calming music for the first time. <\/p>
<\/p>
The spirit of Christmas was the foundation for the event, like the easel, the canvas, and the gold-trimmed frame that surrounds a painting. Jesus Christ, and His Atonement for mankind, were the painting for all to see\u2013\u2013the beautiful masterpiece of the Father. The Spirit of the Lord was the exquisite colors by which it was painted and the bright light that shined upon it. Thus, this Christmas celebration of the Chandler family had everything, both the substance and the imagery of the gospel of Jesus Christ.<\/p>","image_name":"3_11_001_1495383079.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Little Christmas Tree Village","summary_id_org":"95","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"11","image_over":"1","item_no":"95"},{"summary_id":"96","book":"3","chapter":"11","caption":"The Spirit of Enoch\u2014Perfecting of the Saints","image_caption":"The Spirit of Enoch filled their<\/br>home on Christmas Eve","image_caption2":"","start_context":"But in the greater context","end_context":"forever in heaven.","page_no":"430","page_content":"
But in the greater context of this book, we might also mention the existence of other special manifestations of the Spirit. As one of the three main purposes of the Church, redeeming the dead has been blessed with its own special spirit, often referred to as \u201cthe Spirit of Elijah,\u201d that inspires and blesses many as they seek out their ancestors through family history research and perform ordinance work for the dead. But the same is true of the second mission of the Church, that of perfecting the saints. Those involved in the work of perfecting the saints are blessed with a special manifestation of the Spirit all its own. We might call it \u201cthe Spirit of Enoch,\u201d a special desire, a momentum of faith and good works that builds towards the establishment of Zion on earth. <\/p>
<\/p>
Those having this desire become like Melchizedek of old, seeking to establish peace in their home communities and local neighborhoods. Melchizedek was after the order of Enoch, the same who beheld the wickedness and misery of those who would come later in the generation of Noah; he who stretched forth his arm towards heaven; he \"whose heart swelled wide as eternity, and whose bowels yearned... that all eternity shook and wept mightily.\" It was Enoch who established a great city, a Zion that all mankind might look to as the model for civilization, a city the Lord himself took to His bosom to abide with Him forever in heaven.<\/p>","image_name":"3_11_002_1010701217.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Little Christmas Tree Village","summary_id_org":"96","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"11","image_over":"2","item_no":"96"}],"12":[{"summary_id":"97","book":"3","chapter":"12","caption":"The Reflection of Sparkling Ornaments and Colored Lights","image_caption":"The dazzling light fills our eyes<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"To experience the serenity","end_context":"greatest achievement of civilization.","page_no":"434","page_content":"
To experience the serenity of this scene up close, and the reflection of sparkling ornaments and colored lights on the tree, is to experience the larger ornaments of nature in miniature\u2013\u2013the stars, the planets, and the vast system of galaxies that span the universe. The dazzling light of just one of these ornaments can fill our eyes, providing us a glimpse of what lies beyond the veil, and instilling within us a desire to repent of our sins and start fresh in life. Taking a step back and beholding the entire tree, and the combination of ornaments, shiny tinsel, lights, and glistening star on top all working together, our souls are lifted further. The whole of the Christmas tree becomes greater than the sum of its individual parts. <\/p>
<\/p>
This completeness of system is much like the fulness of the gospel found in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Individual pieces of the gospel became known to men as the Bible was published and made available to the world. Various religions were established, bringing many to a generalized knowledge of Jesus Christ and His mission on earth. Through these Christian religions and beliefs, the wonderful light and power of God became discernible, touching the lives of countless men, women, and children for generations. But in 1830, the original tree of the gospel of Jesus Christ was restored once again to the earth. All ornaments\u2014the important truths and the saving ordinances of the gospel\u2014were hung once again by the Lord upon its branches. The full display of lights\u2014revelation and the spirit of prophecy\u2014was turned on again for the great populations of Heavenly Father\u2019s children set to come forth in the last dispensation of time. Thus, the tree before our eyes is a representation of the fulness of the gospel, and the bright star on top is Zion, the greatest achievement of civilization.<\/p>","image_name":"3_12_001_870857582.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A Book of Remembrance","summary_id_org":"97","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"12","image_over":"1","item_no":"97"},{"summary_id":"98","book":"3","chapter":"12","caption":"There Are No Shortcuts to Perfection","image_caption":"The Countess and the young boy<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Creating a Zion-like ","end_context":"The Countess.","page_no":"436","page_content":"
Creating<\/i> a Zion-like stake in <\/i>the Church<\/i> requires hard work, daily supervision<\/i>,<\/i> and attention to detail. There are no shortcut<\/i>s to perfection.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
Signed,<\/i><\/p>
The Countess<\/i>.<\/p>","image_name":"B3_Ch12_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A Book of Remembrance","summary_id_org":"98","rand_no":"2089690898","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"98"},{"summary_id":"99","book":"3","chapter":"12","caption":"Perfection Without Love is Not Perfection at All","image_caption":"<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Perfection without love","end_context":"Ebenezer Scrooge.","page_no":"436","page_content":"
Perfection without love is not perfection at all. <\/i>Zion<\/i> requires hard work and the daily supervis<\/i>i<\/i>on of the labors to be performe<\/i>d<\/i>...<\/i> <\/i>I know<\/i> this<\/i> all too well<\/i>. B<\/i>ut it is<\/i> also<\/i> to be filled with love.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
Your solemn friend<\/i>,<\/i><\/p>
Ebenezer Scrooge<\/i>.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"9","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A Book of Remembrance","summary_id_org":"99","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"99"}],"14":[{"summary_id":"100","book":"3","chapter":"14","caption":"A Vision of Zion Through Music","image_caption":"A choir of angels<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The music filling the","end_context":"a vision of Zion through music.","page_no":"450","page_content":"
The music filling the valley was awe-inspiring! The Tabernacle Choir was much more than a group of singers and musicians. Like angels, the Choir sang by the power of the Holy Ghost, articulating a vision of Zion through music.<\/p>","image_name":"B3_Ch6_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Vision of the Springville East Stake","summary_id_org":"100","rand_no":"1498769342","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"100"},{"summary_id":"101","book":"3","chapter":"14","caption":"A Light From Heaven Shines Down Upon Them","image_caption":"The light from heaven<\/br>shined down upon them","image_caption2":"","start_context":"There had been no formal","end_context":"of the kingdom of God on earth.","page_no":"450","page_content":"
There had been no formal Church calling extended to these members prior to having them stand, as is the usual pattern when conducting formal business of the Church in like settings. Furthermore, the names of these individuals had not been called out one by one from the podium. No, the Spirit had asked them to stand up as a group from among their peers so that the light from heaven might shine down upon them, that they might become a light unto the Church, just as the Church was a light unto all the nations of the earth. <\/p>
<\/p>
These members had faithfully done their duty\u2013\u2013the first five percent of gospel-related tasks\u2013\u2013which they were explicitly commanded to do in their homes and wards every day. But then, they had decided to do a little more. Taking a look at the other ninety-five percent, they had begun to consecrate their time and talents to the building up of the kingdom of God on earth.<\/p>","image_name":"3_14_005_275937547.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"5","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Vision of the Springville East Stake","summary_id_org":"101","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"14","image_over":"5","item_no":"101"}],"16":[{"summary_id":"102","book":"3","chapter":"16","caption":"Transitioning Fulltime to the Work of the Lord","image_caption":"Starting off the day full of energy<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Mark had earlier begun his","end_context":"indeed, the work of Zion.","page_no":"458","page_content":"
Mark had earlier begun his day filled with energy, as though he had been shot out of a gun by the Spirit. He was ready to transition to the work of the Lord full time, and as his main profession in life. What he was doing here in the home, serving breakfast to his wife very early in the morning, was just exactly that\u2013\u2013the work of the Lord, the work of the Church, and, indeed, the work of Zion.<\/p>","image_name":"B3_Ch7_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A Silvery Tray","summary_id_org":"102","rand_no":"1191673893","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"102"},{"summary_id":"103","book":"3","chapter":"16","caption":"Bringing to Pass Mini-Miracles in People’s Lives","image_caption":"So many have needs not being met<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"“Honestly, it’s hard for anyone","end_context":"the longer-term goals of the gospel.","page_no":"459","page_content":"
\u201cHonestly, it\u2019s hard for anyone to pursue higher aspirations in life when they are constantly worried about their job situation, debts, medical problems, family arguments, pressures at school, or finding the right eternal companion. These things weigh heavily on their minds all day long. That will often be what they pray about fervently and what they need help from the Lord and us to solve; and this help coming from our side needs to be provided to each person individually, not just generalized counsel coming from the pulpit on Sundays. We can tackle these issues through good problem-solving techniques, existing Church programs, help from other members\u2013\u2013and even nonmembers where possible\u2013\u2013inspiration, and building sufficient faith among us such that we can bring about mini-miracles in people\u2019s lives. We want to bring relief to them from their trials, as well as give them hope for the future and a basic level of prosperity. They'll need this kind of foundation in their lives before they'll be more at ease to focus on the longer-term goals of the gospel.<\/p>","image_name":"3_7_007.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A Silvery Tray","summary_id_org":"103","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"16","image_over":"3","item_no":"103"},{"summary_id":"104","book":"3","chapter":"16","caption":"Mark Was Beaming: He Loved Everything and Everyone","image_caption":"The successful meeting with Thomas and Robert<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Soaping up in the shower","end_context":"loved everything and everyone.","page_no":"460","page_content":"
Soaping up in the shower afterward, Mark was beaming\u2013\u2013he was ready to accomplish big things. The Lord had already shown to him how quickly things can develop towards his goals. It seemed to him that his testimony had doubled or tripled in strength since yesterday's meeting with Thomas and Robert. He loved Kathleen, he loved the Lord, he loved the Church, he loved his new consulting opportunity at the plant. He loved everything and everyone.<\/p>","image_name":"3_7_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A Silvery Tray","summary_id_org":"104","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"15","image_over":"3","item_no":"104"}],"19":[{"summary_id":"105","book":"3","chapter":"19","caption":"Life at Home Can Be a Paradise","image_caption":"The presense of a special mother<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Whether one is poor, middle class","end_context":"herself and the whole family. ","page_no":"469","page_content":"
Whether one is poor, middle class, or rich, the presence of a special mother like Carolyn in the home creates a level of happiness that is beyond the reach of money, a fine automobile, an attractive piece of real estate, or an engaging career. Carolyn made life a paradise for herself and the whole family.<\/p>","image_name":"3_8_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Castles of Europe","summary_id_org":"105","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"19","image_over":"3","item_no":"105"},{"summary_id":"106","book":"3","chapter":"19","caption":"The Beautiful Roses of the Gospel of Jesus Christ","image_caption":"A young lion cub<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"To look into the eyes","end_context":"of the gospel was all around her.","page_no":"469","page_content":"
To look into the eyes of a small beast\u2014a kitten, a lion cub, or a young lamb\u2014is to see the innocence and gentleness of creation in its purest form. To be like one of these is to be like a child, and as such is the kingdom of God. <\/p>
<\/p>
Carolyn had eyes like these. For her, everything in the world was exciting. With sandy-red hair, she was like an orange kitten experiencing the wonders of a flower garden for the first time. A kitten walks quietly through the irrigation paths between the rose bushes, scarcely leaving imprints in the garden soil. Touching the low-hanging rose petals in the early morning dew with her tiny nose, she explores the rows of beautiful flowers in amazement. The song of the robin, one perched upon a branch in the treetops high above, is an especially sweet sound for a kitten to hear. Looking up with curiosity at the sound for a few moments, and then continuing on to sample the roses, the kitten enjoys life in its fullest measure. <\/p>
<\/p>
Carolyn also enjoyed the rose garden experience\u2014the beautiful roses of the gospel of Jesus Christ. And the biggest wonderment of all to her was the temples of the Church. The Latter-day Saint temples of Europe were like majestic castles, fortresses of God built to transform, beautify, and sanctify the surrounding landscapes. Walking with her husband on the temple grounds, she looked upon the attractive landscaping of flowers and gardens in amazement. Her walk along the sidewalk in Sunday-best shoes was quiet and gentle, as if she were wearing house slippers indoors and walking on soft carpeting. The reverence of the temple inside was relaxing to her; the whispering of voices was peaceful. The Comforter often whispered to her\u2014a sweet sound that she heard from above. Walking down the pathway with her husband to the temple entrance, the fulness of the gospel was all around her.<\/p>","image_name":"3_9_004.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Castles of Europe","summary_id_org":"106","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"21","image_over":"4","item_no":"106"},{"summary_id":"107","book":"3","chapter":"19","caption":"Returning Home From Church Service Overseas","image_caption":"A missionary couple<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Nevertheless, we shall see","end_context":"gather together to build Zion.","page_no":"470","page_content":"
Nevertheless, we shall see that a great work still lay ahead for them in their lives. There is much that can be accomplished for the souls of men overseas as we serve the Lord as missionaries or as Church leaders among the many beautiful cultures and peoples of the earth. But we must seek to establish a permanent home somewhere as the foundation for our lives. Home is a place to find happiness, a place to live the gospel as a family, and a place to gather together to build Zion.<\/p>","image_name":"B3_Ch8_3.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Castles of Europe","summary_id_org":"107","rand_no":"716265903","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"107"}],"21":[{"summary_id":"108","book":"3","chapter":"21","caption":"Reverence in Sunday School","image_caption":"A Sunday School teacher<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Her soft voice, while hard","end_context":"taught from on high","page_no":"476","page_content":"
Her soft voice, while hard to hear, was beneficial in one respect\u2013\u2013it improved the reverence in the classroom. Talking among those in attendance, therefore, had to be kept to a minimum so that everyone could hear and understand what she was saying. It was seen as an annoyance at first, but soon everyone started to go along with this new idea of reverence in Sunday School class. It was something quite nice actually and not really an annoyance at all. It was so enjoyable, in fact, that the period for reverence was subsequently extended by the Sunday School president to include the time that preceded and followed the lesson period. As a result, the atmosphere in Diane\u2019s Sunday School class when ward members arrived each Sunday began to rival that of a temple, preparing them to receive a stronger manifestation of the Spirit. There was less talking, less exchange of ideas, fewer friendly arguments, and less theorizing or commenting about doctrine; instead, the ward members just listened to the lesson quietly. She taught the gospel tenderly. Her emphasis was on teaching simple truths by the Spirit. A principle of the gospel was explained and testified to, and then the Spirit filled the hearts of everyone in the classroom. Edification was done directly by the Spirit for the entire hour\u2014the same edification process used every day in temples throughout the world. The attendees in Sunday School class, therefore, were taught from on high<\/p>","image_name":"3_9_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"How Lovely Is Thy Dwelling Place","summary_id_org":"108","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"21","image_over":"1","item_no":"108"},{"summary_id":"109","book":"3","chapter":"21","caption":"Temple-Like Reverence in Our Hearts and Homes","image_caption":"The sacred rooms of the temple<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"If we can’t achieve temple-like reverence","end_context":"home with us after attending the temple.","page_no":"478","page_content":"
If we can\u2019t achieve temple-like reverence during the regular ward meetings on Sunday, then we probably need to schedule in additional lessons, talks, and special training seminars on the subject. This is something we can do and that we must do. Other religions having far fewer keys on the gospel keyboard can sometimes manage to accomplish this to their betterment. But can we? It requires not just discipline in eliminating noise, but an overriding feeling of reverence inside us\u2014something we take to church with us from home on Sundays, and something we take home with us after attending the temple.<\/p>","image_name":"3_9_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"How Lovely Is Thy Dwelling Place","summary_id_org":"109","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"21","image_over":"2","item_no":"109"},{"summary_id":"110","book":"3","chapter":"21","caption":"Reverence is Where the Gospel Starts","image_caption":"Reverence for God and<\/br>sacred things","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We can control the atmosphere","end_context":"is where the gospel needs to start.","page_no":"477","page_content":"
We can control the atmosphere at church on Sundays if we want to, but we seem to have grown accustomed to failure in this area. Have we given up on reverence in our Sunday services? Have we given up on reverence as a strategic, forward-looking goal of the Church?<\/p>
<\/p>
Reverence\u2013\u2013making our homes and meetinghouses more peaceful and reverent for the Spirit of God to dwell\u2013\u2013is a critical early step in the building of Zion. It is also essential to the preaching of the gospel. An investigator family that shows reverence and proper respect to the missionaries when they first arrive at the door, and while they are taught a gospel discussion after the missionaries have been welcomed in, will most likely be more ready to accept the teachings of faith, repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost that follow. This is particularly true among the peoples and cultures of the world who know little or nothing about Jesus Christ. Thus, reverence for God and sacred things is where the gospel needs to start.<\/p>","image_name":"3_9_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"How Lovely Is Thy Dwelling Place","summary_id_org":"110","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"21","image_over":"3","item_no":"110"}],"22":[{"summary_id":"111","book":"3","chapter":"22","caption":"A Mother Working Outside the Home","image_caption":"A child waits at the day care center for her mother to arrive<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Carina was happy to spend time","end_context":"where they found themselves now.","page_no":"484","page_content":"
Carina was happy to spend time with the children every day, but it was a temporary thing, and she could not replace Diane in that role. She wanted Diane to be happy, and she knew that the dual role of a mother working both inside and outside the home would not lead to happiness in the end. A temporary work requirement for a mother caused by an emergency (like the faith-inspiring work done by mothers entering the factories during World War II) was one thing, but having to do so as a result of one or more bad financial decisions, or as a means to maintain or lift one\u2019s lifestyle for the long run, was quite another. The latter situation was where they found themselves now.<\/p>","image_name":"3_22_003_26341661.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Overcoming the World","summary_id_org":"111","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"22","image_over":"3","item_no":"111"},{"summary_id":"112","book":"3","chapter":"22","caption":"Suffering Through Severe Emotional Pain","image_caption":"The pain of her teenage<\/br>years had returned","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Over the next three to four days","end_context":"the children would be fine.","page_no":"487","page_content":"
Over the next three to four days, Diane suffered through a severe emotional storm, one her sister Jackie could appreciate and was well familiar with. The storm caused her to lose her balance inside the small lifeboat she and the children had been floating in and to fall into the water. There, almost drowning, she struggled to swim and stay afloat amidst the powerful waves. The pain was extreme, but her children needed her to climb back into the boat\u2013\u2013to paddle onward and lead them.<\/p>
<\/p>
After a few days, she started to feel a little better inside. The children were a great comfort to her, looking to her for guidance as always and helping her to keep in place the daily routines that kept the family going. In control of her emotions again, she was able to reach forth her hand to the Savior standing close to her upon the waves and be restored to safety back inside the boat. A rescue ship would be coming along soon to pick them up. Happier days were on the horizon. She and the children would be fine.<\/p>","image_name":"3_22_005_1704599064.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"5","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Overcoming the World","summary_id_org":"112","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"22","image_over":"5","item_no":"112"},{"summary_id":"113","book":"3","chapter":"22","caption":"A Final Act of Kindness","image_caption":"Dean can repent and start a new life<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"If one looks around, he or","end_context":"learned how to overcome the world.","page_no":"488","page_content":"
If one looks around, he or she will quickly realize how much suffering there is in the world and the great work in the gospel there is to be done. Thus, someone like Dean who has made mistakes can quickly find peace and happiness in his life again by beginning anew and immersing himself all day long in the service to others, bringing joy to everyone he meets. <\/p>
<\/p>
As for Diane, she found joy in the knowledge that her final act of kindness to Dean would be a key factor in starting him again on the road to success and happiness. It was also a way for her to find peace as she closed out a very sad episode of her life. By following the example of the Savior, she had learned how to overcome the world.<\/p>","image_name":"3_22_004_776931284.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Overcoming the World","summary_id_org":"113","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"22","image_over":"4","item_no":"113"}],"23":[{"summary_id":"114","book":"3","chapter":"23","caption":"Are the Attributes of Men and Women Arbitrary in God's Plan?","image_caption":"The idea of \"till death do us part\"<\/br>is an old sectarian notion","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The different attributes and roles","end_context":"from God that we have.","page_no":"490","page_content":"
The different attributes and roles of men and women in life, and the society of families being together, weren\u2019t they intended to be important in the full scheme of God\u2019s plan rather than merely temporary and relevant to our mortal lives only? In other words, like blankets, shoes, coats, soap, toothbrushes, telephones, automobiles, and kitchen appliances, were marriages, families, and male\/female attributes purely arbitrary in nature when the earth was created, intended by God to be disposable at death? Surely, this was not what the Savior meant as to what happens and what remains intact after the resurrection of the dead and for all eternity? More likely, the idea of \"till death do us part,\" like so many others, was a sectarian notion invented long after the ministry of the Savior and the Apostles, driven by personal interpretation of the scriptures by men of past centuries\u2013\u2013men who were perhaps well-intentioned and of good character, but who lacked the ability to receive revelation from God like the apostles of Christ, and who were therefore unaware of their mistake; something that would be equally true of many men and women of the Christian world living today. New revelation is required to interpret fully any past revelation from God that we have.<\/p>","image_name":"3_10_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Leanna Mitchell","summary_id_org":"114","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"23","image_over":"2","item_no":"114"},{"summary_id":"115","book":"3","chapter":"23","caption":"A Multitude of Happy Thoughts Now Filled Her Mind","image_caption":"Full of hope and promise<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Making a quick pass through","end_context":"and vitality to her soul.","page_no":"493","page_content":"
Making a quick pass through all of these wonderful blessings in her life, she was back to where she had started the day\u2013\u2013full of hope and promise. Thoughts of failure were gone. She had faith, energy, and feelings of elation. <\/p>
<\/p>
A multitude of happy thoughts now filled her mind, each one of which taken alone might have been seen as grand and pleasing. But pondering upon such a wide variety of happy thoughts, and to experience them all at once, brought strength and vitality to her soul.<\/p>","image_name":"3_10_004.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Leanna Mitchell","summary_id_org":"115","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"23","image_over":"4","item_no":"115"}],"24":[{"summary_id":"116","book":"3","chapter":"24","caption":"What Type of Revelation Am I Receiving?","image_caption":"Revelation from God is incredible!<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We might wonder what category","end_context":"that \"revelation tiredness\" that comes the next morning.","page_no":"494","page_content":"
We might wonder what category of revelation Grant, as a lay member of the Church, and no longer serving in a leadership calling, was receiving through these dreams.<\/p>
<\/p>
Was it inspiration? We sometimes use this more innocent word when we are afraid to use the word \"revelation.\"<\/p>
<\/p>
Was it personal revelation? In other words, revelation to help just him in his own life?<\/p>
<\/p>
Revelation to him as a father, to help him lead and bless his family? <\/p>
<\/p>
Revelation to him as a priesthood holder, to help him better serve both his member and nonmember neighbors living in his new ward and stake? <\/p>
<\/p>
Revelation related to his profession in life, to help him improve or reshape the world\u2019s financial markets and the management consulting industry of which he was a part? <\/p>
<\/p>
Revelation from the Lord to him as a citizen, to help him solve critical problems in his city, state, country, or the world at large? <\/p>
<\/p>
Regardless of what category of revelation these three dreams belonged to, to Grant they could be described by just one word\u2014incredible! <\/p>
<\/p>
Even for a man with his vast experience as a leader of the Church, what had happened to him overnight was still amazing. Revelation from God never gets old, although the experience itself can sometimes overpower one\u2019s physical frame, exhausting both mind and body. A joyful lack of sleep is often part of that \"revelation tiredness\" that comes the next morning.<\/p>","image_name":"3_24_001_827143225.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Three Dreams","summary_id_org":"116","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"24","image_over":"1","item_no":"116"},{"summary_id":"117","book":"3","chapter":"24","caption":"A Large Serving Plate of Homemade Apple Strudel","image_caption":"A delicious combination of spices<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"In the first dream","end_context":"man had not as yet conceived.","page_no":"495","page_content":"
In the first dream, Grant found himself sitting with Carolyn in the front room of their new home. The doorbell rang; President Chandler was at the front door accompanied by a priesthood companion from the ward. Grant invited the two men inside. As they passed through the door, the room immediately filled with light, and Grant felt a powerful manifestation of the Spirit of God come upon him. All sat down, an opening prayer was given, and then a lesson was taught. At the close of the visit, Carolyn brought out a large serving plate of homemade apple strudel. After Carolyn had served up portions of the dessert on dishes to everyone, Grant took a few spoonfuls to try it out. He found it to be very tasty and up to her usual standards. Afterward, the two men departed, taking the remaining strudel in tin foil with them. The light in the room then slowly dissipated.<\/p>
<\/p>
Almost immediately, however, the doorbell rang again, and the same process was repeated\u2013\u2013Brother Chandler and a companion entered through the front door, the room filled with light, the Spirit came upon him, a lesson was taught and, afterward, Carolyn brought out an apple dessert for all to enjoy. This same process was repeated over and over in the dream for what seemed like hours, except that each time Carolyn came out from the kitchen, she had with her a different variety of apple dessert to serve to the guests: apple cobbler, apple crisp, apple bars, apple pie, apple spice cake, apple dumplings, and so on. Additionally, with each new visit, the light in the room became brighter, the burning sensation of the Spirit manifest inside him became stronger, and the taste of the apple treat prepared by Carolyn became increasingly better. The last dessert he sampled, in fact, included apples baked with an incredibly delicious combination of spices. Never before in his life had Grant tasted anything so good!<\/p>
<\/p>
At the dream\u2019s conclusion, Grant saw a table extending infinitely towards the horizon. Upon it were arranged many delicious and spectacular-looking foods, the kind of which he surmised man had not as yet conceived.<\/p>","image_name":"3_24_002_1487017123.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Three Dreams","summary_id_org":"117","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"24","image_over":"2","item_no":"117"}],"25":[{"summary_id":"118","book":"3","chapter":"25","caption":"Maintaining Momentum and Energy in the Gospel","image_caption":"An important talk in<\/br>sacrament meeting (1 of 2)","image_caption2":"","start_context":"How do we participate","end_context":"bestowed upon us from on high.","page_no":"499","page_content":"
How do we participate in the building of Zion in the stake and then stay motivated in that special work for the rest of our lives?<\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cSurely, in the days that follow an important spiritual event in our lives, the quickening effect of the Spirit is forgotten and mostly lost to us. A similar thing happens to us when we make a commitment to the Lord to rid ourselves of bad habits. Our impetus to repent can weaken over time. This diminishing effect happens all the time, and it\u2019s unavoidable, like a missionary returning from the mission field to normal life or a busy married couple returning home after attending the temple. This is why Zion is so difficult to achieve. We find it difficult to maintain for very long the momentum, energy, and excitement of spiritual gifts once they've been bestowed upon us from on high.<\/p>","image_name":"3_25_001_1939650208.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A New Era","summary_id_org":"118","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"25","image_over":"1","item_no":"118"},{"summary_id":"119","book":"3","chapter":"25","caption":"Extending the Quickening Time of Spiritual Gifts","image_caption":"An important talk in sacrament meeting<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"If we are willing, the","end_context":"what we desire to do for others.","page_no":"501","page_content":"
\"If we are willing, the quickening time of spiritual gifts can be extended by the Lord, enabling the Spirit to tarry with us longer and leave a deeper impression. And not only can we experience longer durations of the Spirit each time, but we can also enjoy increases in the quantity of manifestations overall\u2014doubling, tripling, or quadrupling\u2014which, of course, has a strong impact on how we feel every day and what we desire to do for others.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"10","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A New Era","summary_id_org":"119","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"119"},{"summary_id":"120","book":"3","chapter":"25","caption":"A New Era and a New Vocabulary in the Gospel","image_caption":"An important talk in<\/br>sacrament meeting (2 of 2)","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The way I see it, it’s","end_context":"and he has dedicated his life to accomplishing it.","page_no":"501","page_content":"
\u201cThe way I see it, it\u2019s almost like we're at the start of a new era in the gospel, an era in which we as individuals act spontaneously and without waiting to be commanded by the Lord in all things, an era in which we strive to counteract the diminishing effects of the outside world upon the spiritual gifts given to us by God.<\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cIn this new era, the responsibility of Church leaders will be far greater than ever before. They will need to be even more Christlike in their daily lives and become men of greater faith and miracles like the prophets of old. Having good managers in the Church, who handle the routine temporal affairs we have in wards, is very much appreciated, and is a very good thing. But having highly-energized spiritual leaders in the Church, who are able to inspire the members to do greater works of faith than have ever been seen or heard of before in these latter days, that is a far greater thing.<\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cInspiring men and women for a few minutes during a talk in sacrament meeting or in stake conference is a tremendous accomplishment, but sustaining that inspiration within the hearts of the members over an extended period of time after they leave and go home is a far greater achievement. Brother Chandler's efforts have created a new opportunity for all of us in the stake. I see a lifetime of work ahead for us to help him in that effort. <\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cIn the past, the words of action in the Church were' duty,\u2019 \u2018commitment,\u2019 \u2018hard work,\u2019 \u2018responsibility,\u2019 and \u2018accountability.\u2019 Certainly, these are critically important words and we cannot expect to be saved at the last day without embracing them fully. They are and always will be priority words of action to help guide us in the gospel. But in this new era, we need to start looking at other words as well, ones like \u2018desire,\u2019 \u2018opportunity,\u2019 \u2018enthusiasm,\u2019 \u2018spontaneous,\u2019 \u2018enliven,\u2019 \u2018quicken,\u2019 and \u2018powerful feelings.\u2019 Brother Chandler already understands these words. He has a vision in his mind of what our stake can become one day, and he has dedicated his life to accomplishing it.<\/p>","image_name":"3_25_001_1939650208.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A New Era","summary_id_org":"120","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"25","image_over":"1","item_no":"120"}],"26":[{"summary_id":"121","book":"3","chapter":"26","caption":"Music is a Critical Part of the Worship Service","image_caption":"Each note and each chord<\/br>was fully experienced","image_caption2":"","start_context":"To close the program, two","end_context":"together to uplift the audience.","page_no":"505","page_content":"
To close the program, two musicians seated in the first row stood up and prepared themselves for the final number. One of these was a tenor vocalist and the other was a violinist. The program handout indicated they were to perform A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief<\/i>. <\/p>
<\/p>
Out in the audience, Carolyn waited anxiously for the music to begin. The performers were new acquaintances of hers from the valley and the arrangement of the piece was one she had created herself. She considered music to be a very important part of the worship service and that it always should be done right. Like the fine carpentry work done by craftsman in the construction of the chapel's interior, Carolyn\u2019s arrangement also required special craftsmanship and woodworking by the performers. In the design of this musical piece, Carolyn had worked in a supporting role, anticipating an inspiring system of voice and instrument working together to uplift the audience.<\/p>","image_name":"3_26_001_665196906.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Carolyn's Music Festival","summary_id_org":"121","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"26","image_over":"1","item_no":"121"},{"summary_id":"122","book":"3","chapter":"26","caption":"Do We Notice the Ordinary\/Systemic Absences at Church?","image_caption":"Are the absentees noticed<\/br>among us each Sunday?","image_caption2":"","start_context":"A beautiful sacrament meeting","end_context":"ordinary or systemic in their absences.","page_no":"506","page_content":"
A beautiful sacrament meeting program was taking place, but only half of the ward was in attendance. There were at least one hundred, and maybe as many as two hundred members of the ward who had not come\u2014too many missing persons for the ward clerk to count as he made his rounds through the aisles. It was a sobering assessment on her part. Her friend had not been individually absent, but was part of a larger group of absentees. And to make matters worse, she had not been joined at the foyer doors by more persons like herself, waiting for the others to arrive. The other absentees had not been individually missed on this Sunday, being perhaps more ordinary or systemic in their absences.<\/p>","image_name":"3_26_003_1026452741.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Carolyn's Music Festival","summary_id_org":"122","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"26","image_over":"3","item_no":"122"}],"27":[{"summary_id":"123","book":"3","chapter":"27","caption":"A Transformation of His Faith and Testimony","image_caption":"The trip to Asia had been<\/br>a magical time for him","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The Asia trip had been","end_context":"hidden away deep inside his soul.","page_no":"508","page_content":"
The Asia trip had been truly special, a magical time in a sense. A transformation of his faith and testimony had occurred. Principles and concepts he believed in so strongly, and that he had built his life around, had been reinforced and solidified within him. Already possessing a strong, vibrant testimony as one would expect of a leader in the Church, it would have been natural for him to assume that he was doing fairly well in the eyes of the Lord and growing spiritually stronger every day. Nevertheless, at the end of the trip, Grant felt newly awakened and full of desire, as if he had been sleeping in the gospel all of his life. He realized that the years he had served as a Church leader overseas no longer had to be considered as the pinnacle of great works from which one eventually drops back down to normalcy afterwards. Instead, all of his leadership experience could be used as a building block to work towards even greater things on the home front. <\/p>
<\/p>
The past few weeks had been a new awakening for him\u2013\u2013a life-changing experience that even the most righteous of men hope for. He had captured a new desire, a new hunger to read more and more from the book. But it was just a novel, right? How could another man\u2019s fiction have such a deep impact upon him? His quiet ponderings of the book had extended many hours beyond the reading itself; it had been that special. His spiritual state before God had been awakened, releasing powerful new feelings within him, feelings that had been hidden away deep inside his soul.<\/p>","image_name":"3_11_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Powerful Feelings","summary_id_org":"123","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"27","image_over":"1","item_no":"123"}],"29":[{"summary_id":"124","book":"3","chapter":"29","caption":"The Roses in the Garden Provided an Incredible Experience","image_caption":"Like a rose garden, Zion is well worth the time and effort<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"As she watered the flowers","end_context":"the time and effort!","page_no":"518","page_content":"
As she watered the flowers, Carolyn often took time to feel the softness of the rose petals next to her skin and experience the fragrance of the flowers. Kneeling next to each rose bush, she performed light pruning on the individual rose stems one by one. The roses in the garden provided an incredible experience for a person so inclined\u2013\u2013the feel of the soft petals, the sight of the beautiful colors, and the aroma of so many flowers combined together in one spot. She could hear the sound of water running through the hose to the small trenches she had made in the garden, the water still cool to the touch from the underground pipe. Perched on a branch of a nearby tree, a robin stood watch as Carolyn went about the delicate work of caring for the flowers.<\/p>
<\/p>
With her sports water bottle beside her filled with lemonade and ice, she labored in the garden for an hour or so and then moved to the shade of a nearby tree. Feeling pride in what she had accomplished, she looked back at the flower garden and thought to herself: This<\/i> <\/i>rose garden is well worth<\/i> <\/i>the time and effort!<\/i><\/p>","image_name":"3_12_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Rose Garden","summary_id_org":"124","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"29","image_over":"1","item_no":"124"},{"summary_id":"125","book":"3","chapter":"29","caption":"The Blossoming of the Beautiful Gardens of the Stake","image_caption":"Families in a stake are like<\/br>a series of rose bushes","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Carolyn often found time","end_context":"members of the church than this.","page_no":"518","page_content":"
Carolyn often found time to relax under this tree\u2013\u2013to read, to ponder, or even to take a short nap. The five-dollar lawn analogy used by President Chandler was good, but Carolyn preferred to think of the Springville East Stake more simply as a series of rose gardens (wards) and rose bushes (families), and the goal to accomplish was to make the many beautiful gardens of the stake all blossom together as one. <\/p>
<\/p>
A few questions came to mind:<\/p>
<\/p>
If families of the stake were likened to a series of rose <\/i>bushes, just<\/i> how beautiful<\/i> and glorious<\/i> might <\/i>our<\/i> stake become one day?<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
Is a Zion-like stake <\/i>truly <\/i>worth all<\/i> <\/i>the time and effort<\/i>?<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
Carolyn\u2019s immediate response to this last question was: Surely,<\/i> there is<\/i> no greater goal in the lives of <\/i>the members <\/i>of <\/i>the Church<\/i> <\/i>than this<\/i>.<\/p>","image_name":"3_12_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Rose Garden","summary_id_org":"125","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"29","image_over":"2","item_no":"125"}],"30":[{"summary_id":"126","book":"3","chapter":"30","caption":"I Learned How to Feel and I Learned How to Cry","image_caption":"Reading Les Miserables in the<\/br>hotel room at night","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Over the years, I've always pictured","end_context":"my body’s best way of reacting to all of this.","page_no":"522","page_content":"
\u201cOver the years, I've always pictured myself as someone active in the Church, striving to do my best, and hopefully progressing every day in the gospel. And that is certainly true of all of us here. We strive every day to grow in faith and strengthen our testimonies. <\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cDuring the course of my trip, however, my eyes were opened, and I gained a new perspective on the gospel. You might say it was a continuation of the theme of my recent talk in sacrament meeting, if you can think back to that for a moment. It wasn\u2019t any new personal insight into Church doctrine I received, or a better factual knowledge of the scriptures; rather, you might think of it as a great storm I passed through\u2013\u2013a storm of powerful feelings. I learned how to feel, and I learned how to cry. Through tears, my eyes were opened more fully to the beauty of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. <\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cIt was a very emotional couple of weeks, causing me to occasionally lose interest in the business activities that I had been sent there by my brother to do. Alone at night in the hotel rooms I stayed in, I cried on at least two or three occasions while reading stories in the book. The crying overwhelmed me to the point that I was hardly able to see at times, so filled were my eyes with tears. And with each of these periods of crying, there was usually a recovery period afterward that lasted for another hour or two. The recovery periods that followed were just as beautiful as the crying periods themselves; they provided me a chance to ponder these new feelings. The crying cleaned out many of the existing goals I had previously set for my life and created much better ones.<\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cIt\u2019s also worth noting that while I did cry a great deal, I wasn\u2019t feeling sad at all. The crying was joyful! I was experiencing the gospel at its root level\u2013\u2013the love of God, humility, compassion, gratitude, peace, increased wisdom and, of course, joy! The Spirit enlightened my soul in those moments when I cried. I experienced a full spectrum of different emotions, dimensions of the Spirit that I never knew existed. The crying was my body\u2019s best way of reacting to all of this.<\/p>","image_name":"3_30_002_505671490.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Sunday School Class","summary_id_org":"126","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"30","image_over":"2","item_no":"126"}],"37":[{"summary_id":"127","book":"3","chapter":"37","caption":"The Justice Meted Out by the World is Woefully Insufficient","image_caption":"\"No greater love than to lay down one's life for another\"<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Furthermore, it had been","end_context":"the only hope for the future of mankind.","page_no":"558","page_content":"
Furthermore, it had been their opinion for quite some time that these brave men and women deserved much more in the eternal scheme of things than just a nice military funeral after their body was flown home. Surely, a heavenly reward was merited in line with the greatness of their sacrifice?<\/p>
<\/p>
The justice meted out by the world\u2014rewards and punishments both\u2014has been and will always be woefully insufficient to provide fairness and equal opportunity to the billions of souls who come to earth. Some die as infants or right before birth; some die in wars; some are born with disabilities, are wounded in battle, are victims of serious crimes, or are hurt in accidents; some live life without one or both parents; and some suffer through severe emotional or physical pains for part or most of their lives. Many live in fear; many live in immense poverty; many live under authoritative regimes without the basic freedoms we often take for granted; many are taught incorrect principles from the time they are born, never learning right from wrong; many are imprisoned and\/or tortured, having committed no crimes... and the list goes on. To this, we can also add the many animals and other small creatures that have been the victims of cruelty at the hands of man. Thus, to deny the existence of a just God is to deny justice in the end to all men, women, children, and animals who have ever walked this earth. Surely, all men must be held accountable for their acts in this life! True justice can only be meted out properly after the grave and not before. <\/p>
<\/p>
For this reason and others, the arguments of atheists and agnostics, as well as many scientists and educators, against the existence of God, must be discarded as not being rational; for atheists, scientists, and educators suffer all of these things as well and stand in need of eternal justice\u2014that which is outside the reach of man\u2019s law\u2014like we all do. To say this point clearly to believer and unbeliever alike: faith in God is the only hope for the future of mankind.<\/p>","image_name":"3_13_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Chapel Doors","summary_id_org":"127","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"37","image_over":"3","item_no":"127"},{"summary_id":"128","book":"3","chapter":"37","caption":"A National Landmark Rich in Heritage and Tradition","image_caption":"A Mount Vernon made special<\/br>for Utah County","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The Bradley home, with its","end_context":"Bradleys were a fabulous team.","page_no":"560","page_content":"
The Bradley home, with its panoramic view of the valley, was well known to the residents of Springville. But this majestic home was not a rich man\u2019s ornament out on display for pride and vanity. It was a complementary edifice that could be bought, sold, lived in, and occupied by anyone at any time; the Bradleys just happened to be its current occupants. The home had the feel of a national landmark rich in heritage and tradition\u2014a small Mount Vernon made special for the citizens of Utah County. <\/p>
<\/p>
It was a place to receive honored guests for dinner or luncheons. Disabled war veterans from all over Utah and the western states regularly came there to visit. And for those visitors who came by, what was most striking was how excitedly and energetically stories of valor were told. Martha\u2019s versions of stories sounded almost firsthand, like she had been there with Clark during military campaigns. In many respects, this was true; in spirit, she had fought every battle with him. Not surprisingly, Clark really loved his wife; they were soul mates in every sense of the word. The Bradleys were a fabulous team.<\/p>","image_name":"3_13_004.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Chapel Doors","summary_id_org":"128","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"37","image_over":"4","item_no":"128"},{"summary_id":"129","book":"3","chapter":"37","caption":"Interacting With the Church for the First Time","image_caption":"The church doors open easier to visitors from the inside out<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"It was time to go inside.","end_context":"withstand a major storm or earthquake.","page_no":"560","page_content":"
It was time to go inside. <\/p>
<\/p>
Firmly gripping the door handle, she found the outer church door difficult to open. Made of heavy glass and fine steel, the door was her first real interaction with the Church. It seemed to require all of her strength to enter in. An initial pull with both hands to open the door was needed, or at least a firm pull with one. A strong man might enter the church easily, the door\u2019s strength matched equally by his own. And many enter through the heavy church doors comfortably with the help of friends who arrive with them at the door. But for the rest, it isn't an easy task to open the door all by themselves. On the other hand, if someone was there watching and waiting on the inside\u2013\u2013like Carolyn waiting for her friend Leanna\u2013\u2013he or she could push the door from the inside and reach forth with their hand to help a visitor enter more easily. The doors of the church always open easier to visitors from the inside out.<\/p>
<\/p>
Nevertheless, the hard pull aside, Martha liked the feel of these doors. Structurally sound and reassuring, she could tell the church building was solidly built, strong enough, seemingly, to withstand a major storm or earthquake.<\/p>","image_name":"3_13_005.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"5","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Chapel Doors","summary_id_org":"129","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"37","image_over":"5","item_no":"129"}],"38":[{"summary_id":"130","book":"3","chapter":"38","caption":"A Full Cycle of Happy and Sad Emotions","image_caption":"Cosette's vision of the doll shop<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The story and the painting","end_context":"heightened Martha's emotions.","page_no":"562","page_content":"
The story and the painting\u2014these two things blended together created powerful emotions inside of her. She was experiencing a full cycle of happy and sad emotions, all of them linked, like spokes on a wheel, to a central hub of goodness. The tragic story of Cossette was heartbreaking. On the other hand, that beautiful doll was there, majestically portrayed in the painting. The doll brightened the countenance of a hopeful and gleaming Cosette. But it was just a story, right? It wasn't real life. Why then did she feel so sad? <\/p>
<\/p>
Cosette\u2019s longing, captured so well in both the story and the painting, was joyful, even if the object of Cosette\u2019s affection was not necessarily obtained. The innocence and humility of the little girl being portrayed heightened Martha's emotions.<\/p>","image_name":"3_13_006.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A Beautiful Voice","summary_id_org":"130","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"38","image_over":"1","item_no":"130"}],"39":[{"summary_id":"131","book":"3","chapter":"39","caption":"The Spirit of God—The Great Sparkler of the Ages","image_caption":"A system of things working together<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We should also mention that","end_context":"working together as intended!","page_no":"566","page_content":"
We should also mention that Brother Chandler enjoyed special moments during the Sunday School lesson very much like those experienced by Martha. But where Martha had seen only two things, he had seen three. Brother Chandler had also seen the paintings and had heard the stories, but he couldn\u2019t help but notice the third component\u2013\u2013the sparkling effect of the stand casting light upon the painting. The sparkling light had quickened the beauty of the painting in much the same way as the Spirit, the great sparkler of the ages, had quickened the eyes, ears, and hearts of everyone watching. While the story was being told, Brother Chandler\u2019s eyes moved back and forth between the painting and the stand that supported it. It was both functional and attractive, he thought. Once the story had gotten underway, and the paintings had become visible to the audience under the lights, he thought warmly, A system of things all working together as intende<\/i>d!<\/i><\/p>","image_name":"3_13_009.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Joy of the Spirit","summary_id_org":"131","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"39","image_over":"2","item_no":"131"}],"40":[{"summary_id":"132","book":"3","chapter":"40","caption":"What Do Latter-day Saints Believe About Jesus Christ?","image_caption":"As a Latter-day Saint now,<\/br>what do I believe?","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Martha, experiencing the chapel","end_context":"still have cause to wonder.","page_no":"570","page_content":"
Martha, experiencing the chapel for the first time, was gleaning all possible information about the Church and its way of doing things, carefully recording all of this down in her mind. <\/p>
<\/p>
What do the <\/i>Latter-day Saints<\/i> believe about God, about the Bible, <\/i>and <\/i>about Jesus Christ? <\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
She knew very little, only that which others had told to her, or what she had occasionally picked up from the news. Some of what she knew about the Church was good, and that was why she had sought out the Church the week before to make a donation. As a bank to initially receive her money, it was fine, and as a reputable charitable organization to distribute her money to the needy around the world, it seemed like a solid choice.<\/p>
<\/p>
She had many Latter-day Saint friends in Utah, and they had been helpful to her over the years in providing a positive image of the Church and its teachings.<\/p>
<\/p>
On the other hand, there were opinions expressed by some among her friends and in the media, that hardly painted a flattering picture. Thus, a conflict existed between these two views\u2013\u2013the good things about the Church she knew indirectly through friends, and now also firsthand, versus the things said by those who opposed or were angry with the Church, its teachings, and its general policies. And had she had not received a testimony of her own through a manifestation of the Spirit the prior week, she would, even at this moment, still have cause to wonder.<\/p>","image_name":"B3_Ch14_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A Lantern in the Church Steeple","summary_id_org":"132","rand_no":"1895212484","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"132"},{"summary_id":"133","book":"3","chapter":"40","caption":"Jesus Christ is Found in Everything Latter-day Saints Think and Do","image_caption":"This is THE church of Jesus Christ<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Later that day, on the","end_context":"I want to become a member right away.","page_no":"573","page_content":"
Later that day, on the drive home after the meetings, Martha turned to Clark in the front seat of the car and asked:<\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cHow in the world can people say that Latter-day Saints are not Christians? My word! <\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cI've attended services in other churches, and they were nice, too. But what in the world are all these people talking about? Jesus Christ is in every page of the hymn books, in the talks given by the speakers, in the blessing on the bread and on the water for the sacrament, in the badges worn by their missionaries, in the scriptures they carry, in the prayers they utter, and really, in everything they think and do as Church members. <\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cIs it envy, ignorance, or evil intentions of these people who say bad things about the Latter-day Saints? I have no idea what they're talking about. They're factually wrong in what they say.<\/p>
<\/p>
\u201cThis is a church of Jesus Christ; in fact, this is THE Church of Jesus Christ, and I want to become a member right away.\u201d<\/p>","image_name":"B3_Ch14_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"A Lantern in the Church Steeple","summary_id_org":"133","rand_no":"893495828","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"133"}],"41":[{"summary_id":"134","book":"3","chapter":"41","caption":"The Law of Consecration is Given That All Might Have Hope","image_caption":"Hope for tomorrow<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The lesson for us is clear","end_context":"all men might have hope.","page_no":"578","page_content":"
The lesson for us is clear. The stocks of unused kitten chow are like the great riches of Latter-day Saints living in Utah, the riches we hold in our hands and over which we have stewardship. Much of what we have been given in life sits idly by while many in the world, and even some in our communities, worry, suffer, are sick, or even die because of needs not being met\u2014needs for food, needs for clean water, needs for shelter, needs for good medical and dental care, needs for education and training, needs for jobs, everyday needs of single mothers and their children, needs for greater security in high-crime neighborhoods, needs of freedom and stable governments among whole peoples of the earth, and so forth. <\/p>
<\/p>
But more than anything, the poor and the needy of the world need hope\u2014hope for today and hope for tomorrow. The law of consecration is given that all men might have hope.<\/p>","image_name":"3_41_005_481245205.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"5","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Missing Kitten Chow","summary_id_org":"134","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"41","image_over":"5","item_no":"134"}],"42":[{"summary_id":"135","book":"3","chapter":"42","caption":"Making Celestial Things Happen","image_caption":"The law of consecration is<\/br>the law of Jesus Christ","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The celestial kingdom is the","end_context":"wards and Zion-like stakes.","page_no":"581","page_content":"
The celestial kingdom is the Lord\u2019s storehouse in heaven, filled with great riches. The law of consecration provides those of us living on earth a way to tap into those eternal treasures. It is the means by which celestial things happen in this world, including the gradual, step-by-step movement to Zion-like wards and Zion-like stakes.<\/p>","image_name":"3_42_003_1706716805.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Righteous Kings of Zion","summary_id_org":"135","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"42","image_over":"3","item_no":"135"}],"43":[{"summary_id":"136","book":"3","chapter":"43","caption":"Create a Large Amount of Goods and Services for Zion","image_caption":"Keeping the storehouse filled<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The law of consecration is not","end_context":"is what matters most to the Lord.","page_no":"584","page_content":"
The law of consecration is not just to share our wealth (or lack thereof) with the poor within the Church and elsewhere. It is, also, through our desires, faith, and God-given talents to do everything in our power economically to create a large amount of goods and services for the benefit of Zion\u2014to help create plenty of kitten chow, and then to provide plenty of love to help serve it out. Rich men and women can consider themselves lucky in this respect\u2013\u2013they have essentially completed the first part of this important task. They just need to follow through and do the second part as well\u2013\u2013make their kitten chow stocks fully available to both God and man. <\/p>
<\/p>
There is no value in moving the kitten chow from a prosperous individual to the Church storehouse unless there is significant joy experienced by that individual in the act of giving. The Lord can fill the storehouse without our help if it\u2019s just a matter of having enough food and substance in inventory to cover the needs of the poor. In that case, it\u2019s only a computer systems or logistics issue and not a salvation one. The Church storehouse itself is not a righteous entity; it\u2019s a mirror reflection of our hearts and who we are as a people. How we consecrate, manage, and distribute the wealth we have been given (or, again, lack thereof) as Church members is what matters most to the Lord.<\/p>","image_name":"3_43_002_245087257.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Zion and the Law of Consecration","summary_id_org":"136","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"43","image_over":"2","item_no":"136"},{"summary_id":"137","book":"3","chapter":"43","caption":"Zion in Real Terms is Actually Quite Simple","image_caption":"A testimony of Zion<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Practically speaking, Zion","end_context":"increases our desires to do good.","page_no":"586","page_content":"
Practically speaking, Zion is nothing more than what our common sense might already tell us about it. There is no big mystery here. <\/p>
<\/p>
Zion first requires a strong testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. To this we add spices\u2013\u2013sprinkles of humility, desire, sincerity, obedience, and the consecration of one\u2019s time, talents, and wealth. We have to be genuine in our hearts, and in compliance fully with the principles of the gospel, if we aspire to take part in something this grand. The Lord will not be fooled by weak imitations, and He will not be mocked; for surely, the work of Zion is something He holds very dear to His heart. It must be done right.<\/p>
<\/p>
Zion, organizationally, might be defined in the Church as something that operates at a ward level, a stake level, or even a larger geographic area comprised of many stakes. But for our purposes, we should think of Zion as something initiated at the individual or family level\u2014a feeling or aspiration inside of us that expands our souls and increases our desires to do good.<\/p>","image_name":"3_43_003_442726626.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Zion and the Law of Consecration","summary_id_org":"137","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"43","image_over":"3","item_no":"137"},{"summary_id":"138","book":"3","chapter":"43","caption":"The Law of Consecration is Waiting for Us","image_caption":"We are rich in everything<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Relative to the pioneers, and","end_context":"save the souls of others.","page_no":"589","page_content":"
Relative to the pioneers, and to all the generations of the earth that have come before us, those of us living today are rich, extremely rich\u2014rich in personal liberties and freedoms, rich in heritage, rich in education and opportunities to improve ourselves, rich in the finer things of life, rich in modern advances that constantly improve the quality of our lives, and rich in knowledge of the restored gospel. We are a rich and prosperous people of God. <\/p>
<\/p>
The law of consecration is ready and waiting for us\u2014ready to make us even richer and to help us succeed in life. It is there to help us save our own souls and to bring celestial joy into the world to help save the souls of others.<\/p>","image_name":"3_43_004_341305446.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Zion and the Law of Consecration","summary_id_org":"138","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"43","image_over":"4","item_no":"138"}],"47":[{"summary_id":"139","book":"3","chapter":"47","caption":"A Different Classification of Temple, a Zion-Class","image_caption":"A ship of the line in olden days<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Mark could see the outline of the","end_context":"of the mighty ships of ZION?","page_no":"608","page_content":"
Mark could see the outline of the two temples as though construction had already been completed. Initially, he had seen the exterior of the buildings, but now the vision brought him inside the temple complex to where a pre-dedication tour was going on. He saw the central lobby. It was like the receiving areas of other Latter-day Saint temples he had seen before, but much larger. In fact, it seemed that the most obvious characteristics of these temples inside and out were that they were larger, more curious in workmanship, and more beautiful in style and elegance than all the other temples the Church had previously built. They were a different classification of temple, a Zion-class. <\/p>
<\/p>
To use an analogy of naval ships of the nineteenth century, mid-range sized temples built by the Church, such as the Logan, St. George, and Manti, were sloop-of-war class vessels, with spiritual fire power in the range of sixteen to eighteen cannon; the larger Salt Lake Temple (thirty-two cannon) and the Los Angeles temple (twenty-five cannon) were frigate-class vessels; and smaller temples like the Monterey Mexico, Helsinki, and the Campinas Brazil, built for speed, varying between four and fourteen cannon, and ranging in crew size between twenty and forty, were of the smaller schooner class. The new Springville and North Ogden temples, however, were of the ship-of-the-line category, having three decks and as many as one hundred and twenty cannon, including powerful thirty-six pounders on the lower decks. Deployed in temple fleets of two or more along with other supporting vessels, these large capital ships of the Lord struck terror in the hearts of the evil. Who can stand before the great firepower of the mighty ships of ZION?<\/p>","image_name":"3_16_006.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"6","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Prelude to Zion","summary_id_org":"139","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"47","image_over":"6","item_no":"139"}],"48":[{"summary_id":"140","book":"3","chapter":"48","caption":"Yearnings For Our Father in Heaven","image_caption":"Yearnings for our Heavenly Father<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Do we know anything at all about the","end_context":"We should be as little lambs.","page_no":"611","page_content":"
Do we know anything at all about the love that God, the Eternal Father, has for each one of us? <\/p>
<\/p>
Jesus Christ had powerful yearnings in His prayers to the Father during His earthly ministry. Surely, we would not dare to describe such feelings as mere faith; like Ammon, our souls might flee at the thought. No, the example of Jesus was to pray to God consumed with love; and we can only imagine the great love the Father had for His beloved Son when He received those beautiful prayers. These were the most sacred words ever spoken on earth and only traces of them are we able to find in the scriptures.<\/p>
<\/p>
What we lack in our personal prayers most often is love\u2013\u2013love of God and yearnings as children, like those of Jesus Christ, for our Father in Heaven. We often forget that we are exactly that, children, in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. So, why are we often puffed up in pride and not more like children in the feelings we have for God? Pride gets in the way when we pray; we are too smart, too sophisticated, or too busy with other things to love God. We should be as little lambs.<\/p>","image_name":"3_48_001_1177025593.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Love of God","summary_id_org":"140","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"48","image_over":"1","item_no":"140"},{"summary_id":"141","book":"3","chapter":"48","caption":"Faith in God Becomes Love of God","image_caption":"Faith in God and in Jesus Christ impels one to good works<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Love of God is greater than faith","end_context":"with the pure love of Christ.","page_no":"612","page_content":"
Love of God is greater than faith in God. Faith is a component of love, not the other way around.<\/p>
<\/p>
Love of God is a gift of the Spirit.<\/p>
<\/p>
Faith in God is called. Love of God is chosen. <\/p>
<\/p>
Correct beliefs and good works (the two things added together being faith in Christ) without love are dead, being alone. <\/p>
<\/p>
If we have faith in God only, then our obedience to gospel principles is like living in a black and white world\u2014we lack the beautiful spectrum of colors in our soul that comes from being filled with the pure love of Christ.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Love of God","summary_id_org":"141","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"141"},{"summary_id":"142","book":"3","chapter":"48","caption":"Conversing With the Spirit Minute by Minute","image_caption":"Sharing everything in the eternities<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Mark smiled within his soul.","end_context":"In the eternities.","page_no":"614","page_content":"
Mark smiled within his soul. A conversation with God was occurring minute by minute through the Spirit. The conversation itself was amazing; the implications of the words spoken were even more amazing.<\/p>
<\/p>
He continued to listen for the voice of the Spirit as he lay in bed. He responded back each time to everything spoken by the Spirit, trying to show forth love to God the best way he knew how. He was learning to speak with love in his thoughts and love in his prayers\u2014these two activities of his, thoughts and prayers, often being much the same thing as he lay awake off and on all night long. He expressed gratitude for all of the wonderful things that he had been given in life\u2014a very good thing to do. But the act of expressing love to God like this was still a learning process, even for a sixty-four-year-old stake president. He could only imagine the manner in which Christ prayed to the Father. Words of love expressed by that perfect being to God go beyond the understanding of man.<\/p>
<\/p>
The Spirit came again several more times during the night, speaking words or phrases to Mark\u2013\u2013sometimes when he was awake, sometimes when he was drifting off to sleep, and sometimes when he was awakened from his sleep. And even when he was asleep, his mind was filled with the images, parables, and stories of dreams, such that there was a constant flow of insight, ideas, love, excitement, things easy to understand, things hard to understand, reminders of the past, concerns for the moment, warnings for the future, and other such things that kept him occupied all night long. <\/p>
<\/p>
Although tired from a lack of sleep the next morning, Mark gave Kathleen a warm embrace first thing when she awoke and quickly related to her everything that had happened. <\/p>
<\/p>
Thus we can see that the love of God is contagious, something particularly easy to share with one\u2019s eternal partner. Mark and Kathleen shared everything in life and would share everything in the eternities.<\/p>","image_name":"3_48_004_391926663.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Love of God","summary_id_org":"142","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"48","image_over":"4","item_no":"142"}],"50":[{"summary_id":"143","book":"3","chapter":"50","caption":"Two Kittens Testify of Miracles Before the World","image_caption":"Miracles really do happen<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The kittens were satisfied","end_context":"easily demonstrates that fact.","page_no":"623","page_content":"
The kittens were satisfied, having given utterances of and by the Spirit of God. And it should be noted that, in this instance, a second witness had been provided to the children. In speaking first, Tiger might be likened to the Bible, and in speaking second, Chestnut might be likened to the Book of Mormon. Two kittens stood before the world, testifying that miracles really do happen and that a new era of the gospel was at hand in the Springville East Stake. If God can speak through a kitten once, he can surely do it again later on. The same is true of men. We must say, however, it is much easier for one to hold the Bible and the Book of Mormon together in one\u2019s hand than, say, two kittens, where even two hands are not enough sometimes to handle a single feisty cat! <\/p>
<\/p>
And, most certainly, we are safe in the declaration that the words of the prophets of the Book of Mormon are well-represented by the words \u201cI love Jesus\u201d spoken by Chestnut. A thorough spiritual word print analysis (performed by linguistic experts or, better yet, by the billions of casual, everyday readers of books who exist throughout the world), in which one feels the powerful testimony of Jesus Christ of the book's authors in one's soul, easily demonstrates that fact.<\/p>","image_name":"3_17_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Fresh Tuna Fish on Christmas Eve","summary_id_org":"143","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"50","image_over":"1","item_no":"143"}],"51":[{"summary_id":"144","book":"3","chapter":"51","caption":"A Special Glow of the Christmas Season","image_caption":"Springville as a snow globe<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"It was early morning on Christmas","end_context":"in the hearts of the people.","page_no":"625","page_content":"
It was early morning on Christmas Day, 1:40 AM to be exact. The Spirit watched as the Zion-implementation meter passed the two-dollar mark\u2014the finishing touches on the Springville East Stake were now complete. Like tiny snowflakes falling upon a town in a miniature snow globe, a flurry of spiritual gifts and blessings had started to fall down from the heavens upon the members of the stake. The special glow of the Christmas season was present everywhere throughout the world, but even more so here in Springville where the love of God was unrestrained in the hearts of the people.<\/p>","image_name":"3_51_001_1815549439.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"The Hymn of the Poor","summary_id_org":"144","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"51","image_over":"1","item_no":"144"}],"52":[{"summary_id":"145","book":"3","chapter":"52","caption":"A Vision of a Christmas Tree in the Celestial Kingdom","image_caption":"The gifts of God and the<\/br>riches of eternity","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Suddenly, there was a brilliant","end_context":"marvelous gospel here on earth.","page_no":"632","page_content":"","image_name":"3_52_001_626830509.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Revelation Library in the Heavens","summary_id_org":"145","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"52","image_over":"1","item_no":"145"},{"summary_id":"146","book":"3","chapter":"52","caption":"The Book of Mormon Contains the Fullness of the Gospel","image_caption":"The scriptures of the<\/br>restored gospel","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The Book of Mormon stands by itself.","end_context":"that is not theory, it's reality.","page_no":"637","page_content":"
The Book of Mormon stands by itself. It does not need the Bible as a foundation to stand upon, although the two books obviously share the same common ancestry and teach many of the same core gospel truths. The same, however, is not true the other way around. The Bible does not contain the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It needs modern-day revealed scripture, like the Book of Mormon, to bolster it and give it the power it was always meant to have.<\/p>
<\/p>
But it\u2019s also true that all of the scriptures we have today\u2014the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price\u2014are not the pinnacle of revelations from God. They are only the starting point. Like our individual patriarchal blessings that are written down or printed for us on paper, these scriptures are only the opening bid by the Lord, hinting at what is available in the heavens and what He still has in store for us.<\/p>
<\/p>
The ability of the Lord Jesus Christ to interact with us daily as individuals, and as a Church, to reveal to us the things of heaven of a nature and scope that can truly stun the world, that is not theory, it's reality.<\/p>","image_name":"3_52_007_1822202908.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"7","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Revelation Library in the Heavens","summary_id_org":"146","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"52","image_over":"7","item_no":"146"}],"53":[{"summary_id":"147","book":"3","chapter":"53","caption":"Offering Kindness to the Needy Who Arrive at Our Doors","image_caption":"A stray cat seeking shelter<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Carolyn now saw","end_context":"values often seen in Latter-day Saint neighbors.","page_no":"638","page_content":"
Carolyn now saw what Coco had seen the day before\u2013\u2013a thin, sickly he-cat that had been battered hard by the weather. The strange cat stood a few feet from the porch. He had been surprised at the sudden opening of the door and was now somewhat unsure of himself\u2014not bold enough to ascend the porch steps and enjoy the shelter it offered from the wind and snow. He had yowled loudly\u2014his instinct was to alert others he needed food\u2014but now that someone had responded, the situation was unclear. Would the person yell \u201cscram\u201d from the doorway and try to kick him further away from the porch and perhaps into a nearby snowdrift? Would a broom be used to chase him out of the yard and into the street? As a stray cat, this was his expectation, the result of many previous encounters with people. But something\u2014the Spirit most likely\u2014had brought him here. Would he be treated with kindness by the people at this home?<\/p>
<\/p>
Carolyn, seeing the suffering animal, was cautious, not wishing to scare him away. She opened the door wide, stepped back, and called for him to enter. The cat, too, was cautious and not sure what new problems might be waiting for him on the inside. Like a child, the cat was prone to trust in the goodness of God and believe that people\u2014also created by God\u2014would treat him nicely. His real-world experiences in life, however, had somewhat altered these instincts. Therefore, to survive, he had learned the skills of a thief and a vagabond, taking food and shelter wherever he could find them, and without asking.<\/p>
<\/p>
The stray cat was not yet prepared to receive \u201cthe fulness of the gospel\u201d of good cat behaviors, like those more easily embraced by Coco when, as a kitten, he was first introduced into Grant and Carolyn\u2019s home. His life\u2019s experiences were wound up into a series of confusing and difficult struggles. It was necessary that someone\u2013\u2013with love\u2013\u2013help to unwind him and return him to a path where he could find joy in his life again. Hunger and cold on this day had made him humbler than usual, helping him realize that he could not always steal to survive, and requiring that he try the frontal approach\u2014asking for help at someone\u2019s door; hence his presence here. The home of the people living here did seem warm and inviting, and he saw there was another cat inside, one he recognized from the other day. This cat had seemed at least somewhat friendly, one of the reasons why he had chosen to return to this home rather than go begging for food somewhere else. Coco had not growled at him and seemed like an example of good cat manners and friendliness\u2014the kindness and good Christian values often seen in Latter-day Saint neighbors.<\/p>","image_name":"3_53_001_914724863.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Coming in From the Cold","summary_id_org":"147","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"53","image_over":"1","item_no":"147"}],"55":[{"summary_id":"148","book":"3","chapter":"55","caption":"Exploring the Fullness of the Gospel","image_caption":"Great signs and wonders are seen<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"All of these things had happened","end_context":"there waiting for them.","page_no":"647","page_content":"
All of these things had happened and yet it was still very early on Christmas Day. In the home of just one family, the Spirit of God had been busy at work, building up feelings of charity in their hearts, and bestowing upon them visions of heaven normally reserved for prophets and seers. Incidents such as these, however, were not unique; many in the stake had awakened with tired eyes on this morning, having enjoyed revelations of the highest order all night long. These humble Church members had not sought for these things, nor had they felt themselves particularly worthy or special in the eyes of the Lord. They were simply experiencing an outpouring of the love of God. Blessings of this magnitude are given freely by the Lord to the members of His Church when they draw near to Him and explore the fulness of His gospel. The members of the Springville East Stake were doing just that.<\/p>
<\/p>
It was a time in Springville like that at the beginning of 3rd Nephi when great signs and wonders announcing the birth of the Savior in the Old World were being shown to people in the New World. Small miracles had been occurring before; big miracles were occurring now. Some who had been somewhat skeptical before were now starting to believe. <\/p>
<\/p>
The people of the stake saw Zion off at the distance, not with their natural eyes, but with their spiritual eyes. They had progressed up the ladder of faith and had obtained a little bit of knowledge; for surely, the first inklings of Zion will include knowledge as well as faith. Nothing about Zion on earth or God in heaven was contrived or theorized\u2014all was real! The existence of God was real! The opportunity for greater revelation was real! The prospect of Zion was real!<\/p>
<\/p>
We have seen these things already in the story of Brother Chandler and his wife Kathleen, and also in the story of Brother James Hancock and his wife Beth. These two couples of the Church went to sleep at night expecting the revelations of God to be unfolded unto them, as though the veil was slowly being lifted. They looked towards heaven with perfect confidence, having desires to know everything about the plan of salvation and the kingdom of God. They grew in the knowledge of God and His ways and were consumed by His everlasting love. And when they closed their eyes at night, the mysteries of the restored gospel were there waiting for them.<\/p>","image_name":"3_55_001_2103605442.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Springville","chapter_title":"Christmas Day Celebration","summary_id_org":"148","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"55","image_over":"1","item_no":"148"}]},"4":{"1":[{"summary_id":"149","book":"4","chapter":"1","caption":"Members Worldwide Rise Up to Do the Work of Zion","image_caption":"Momentum in the church<\/br>was building","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Another full year in the history","end_context":"nurtured by the Spirit.","page_no":"652","page_content":"
Another full year in the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had passed away. Momentum was building; the Church was on the move towards greater things in the gospel than had ever been seen before. Vibrations from the North Ogden 2nd and the Springville East stakes were creating powerful waves all across the Wasatch Front, hitting with force from both sides upon the stakes of Salt Lake County.<\/p>
<\/p>
Lay members of the Church all over the world were rising up in great numbers, having desire for Zion in their hearts. Like the change that occurred among the people of King Mosiah during Book of Mormon times, no longer were members expecting the Lord or Church leaders to do everything for them. The work needing to be done was theirs to do; the motivation to act was coming from inside themselves, nurtured by the Spirit.<\/p>","image_name":"4_1_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"A New Era in the Church","summary_id_org":"149","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"1","image_over":"1","item_no":"149"},{"summary_id":"150","book":"4","chapter":"1","caption":"Reaching Out With Love to the Masses","image_caption":"The principles of Zion are the greatest tools we have<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"All inhabitants of the earth","end_context":"construction sites of wards.","page_no":"653","page_content":"
All inhabitants of the earth, every man, woman, and child born into this world, are candidates for salvation; that is the scope of our calling as members of the Church. The principles of Zion are the greatest tools we have in the gospel handbook to reach out with love to the masses. People are attracted to and love to experience beautiful things. Outward manifestations of Zion in our lives, including the possibility at some point of Zion-class temples and Zion-class stake conference centers, are just that\u2013\u2013beautiful\u2013\u2013even if they are still works in progress and only artist renditions are available to see at the construction sites of wards.<\/p>","image_name":"4_1_002_898398043.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"A New Era in the Church","summary_id_org":"150","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"1","image_over":"2","item_no":"150"}],"2":[{"summary_id":"151","book":"4","chapter":"2","caption":"Stake Presidents Are Filled With Love for Everyone","image_caption":"A stake president in meeting<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"There was one key difference,","end_context":"there is always plenty of time.","page_no":"655","page_content":"
There was one key difference, however, this time. In the case of the basketball camp, James and the other boys his age from around the nation had arrived at the camp hopeful that they might stand out and be noticed by the camp organizers and college scouts, having expectations of scholarship offers and an overall enhancement of their athletic careers. In contrast, the stake presidents arriving to this Zion's conference had no such ambitions; their only concern was for the welfare of the souls of men and, most especially, for those they were called to serve in their local communities. They were filled with love for everyone, and that's what made them special. <\/p>
<\/p>
To meet and talk with any one of them is like talking with your local bishop or quorum president. They listen patiently and politely as others talk. They laugh and smile easily. They are confident and comfortable with themselves and don't feel the need to grandstand or dominate a gathering. Perfected by experiences in the gospel that might span a lifetime, and filled with the Holy Ghost, there is a noticeable peace about them. They are ready to lead in any situation, but they are also ready to be led themselves, whether that is being taken by the hand of the Lord directly or, if within a difficult trial, willing to be lifted up and carried forth in His arms. They can shake hands in a crowd or do any one of a hundred routine tasks and not feel rushed, for truly, the yesterdays, todays, and tomorrows of a man of God are much the same, and there is always plenty of time.<\/p>","image_name":"4_2_002_128519033.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Leadership and Personal Ambition","summary_id_org":"151","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"2","image_over":"2","item_no":"151"},{"summary_id":"152","book":"4","chapter":"2","caption":"Presidencies and Counselors in Church Organization","image_caption":"Church leadership is organized into presidencies for leader support<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We might also make note of","end_context":"during every conference session.","page_no":"656","page_content":"
We might also make note of something else very special about the Church organization that is sometimes overlooked. Have you ever noticed how many counselors there are? We are not led by individual leaders alone, but by presidencies. There are two counselors everywhere you look: in priesthood quorums, in the Relief Society, in the primary, in the youth organizations, in the bishopric, in the stake presidency, in the mission presidency, in the area presidency, and, of course, in the First Presidency. Thus, the Lord has both good leadership and good supporting leadership everywhere in His Church. This part of the Lord's design has a tendency to be taken for granted (and be underappreciated) even though it is right there in front of us every Sunday and during every conference session.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"X","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Leadership and Personal Ambition","summary_id_org":"152","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"152"},{"summary_id":"153","book":"4","chapter":"2","caption":"Righteous Kings and Queens of Zion","image_caption":"King Mosiah being set apart<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"To be righteous kings and queens","end_context":"to honor the Son of God!","page_no":"656","page_content":"
To be righteous kings and queens of Zion, we have to be totally free of personal ambition, and that includes not just what we do inside the Church, but also that which we do outside of it in the career choices we make in our personal lives. <\/p>
<\/p>
To quote from an earlier chapter:<\/p>
<\/p>
A righteous king is full of humility and kneels before God. He has no personal ambition other than to do good and bring joy to the people he serves. He steps forward and consecrates all he has to the building up of Zion, bringing forth gold, frankincense, myrrh<\/i>,<\/i> and other marvelous gifts to lay at the feet of the Son of God. Surely there is no greater honor or joy<\/i> in<\/i> life than this? To work all <\/i>of <\/i>one\u2019s life to bring forth wonderful gifts to honor the Son of God!<\/i><\/p>","image_name":"3_42_004_842758509.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Leadership and Personal Ambition","summary_id_org":"153","rand_no":"","bk_over":"3","ch_over":"42","image_over":"4","item_no":"153"}],"3":[{"summary_id":"154","book":"4","chapter":"3","caption":"Receiving the Guidance of the Spirit in Talk Preparation","image_caption":"Proofreading one's talk<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Reading and rereading the","end_context":"ready, and he was ready.","page_no":"661","page_content":"
Reading and rereading the concepts provided, Grant struggled mightily for the first two weeks. He struggled because he was worried more about those who would be in attendance and what they might think of his performance and ability as a public speaker. He had been caught up in the art of \"speech making\" and looking for smooth-sounding words... not relying upon the Spirit for guidance. He wasted two weeks this way until discovering his error. <\/p>
<\/p>
From then on, things became easier. He didn't try to write so much as to simply ponder the message he was trying to convey and listen in his mind for inspiration. To fill the well, and thus prepare himself to receive inspiration, he took the opportunity to relive his marvelous experiences from the China trip again by rereading certain passages and stories from Les Miserables<\/i>. With increased energy in his soul, he then opened up the standard works and went to work. Slowly, the Spirit was able to break through and penetrate his heart, replacing worry and confusion with faith and confidence. Grant also made time to go to the temple and further ponder upon his assignment there, enjoying the atmosphere of the magnificent celestial room in the Mapleton temple complex. He did all of these preparatory steps and then, with perfect confidence, just sat back and listened to the voice and promptings of the Spirit.<\/p>
<\/p>
In the end, the talk basically wrote itself. Grant's role was simply to get out of the way, and he was able to do an excellent job of that. When the day of the conference arrived, the talk was ready, and he was ready.<\/p>","image_name":"4_3_004_1616209187.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Preparations for Zion Conference","summary_id_org":"154","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"3","image_over":"4","item_no":"154"}],"4":[{"summary_id":"155","book":"4","chapter":"4","caption":"Zion is All About Simple Gospel Truths","image_caption":"The Savior teaches charity<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"There has been so much concern","end_context":"such a setting rather than one.","page_no":"666","page_content":"
\"There has been so much concern about the actual meanings and interpretations of verses of scripture over the centuries of man, even inside our Church, and even with regard to latter-day scriptures. If men will focus their efforts on being filled with charity, rather than getting tied up in knots creating great contentions among themselves on points of doctrine, they can then be saved. Without this, salvation in the highest kingdom of God for many will be much more difficult, if not impossible. The technical aspects of scripture, and the interpretations thereof pursued by fine men at all levels of Church leadership throughout our history, have too often overshadowed the basic principles of the gospel that are simple, clear, and not really expressed so much in the words themselves, but in the feelings they evoke in our souls and what they motivate us to do for others.<\/p>
<\/p>
\"Zion is all about simple gospel truths\u2013\u2013desire, humility, love, gratitude, and so forth. We become as little lambs like the character Radar O'Riley from the TV show MASH<\/i>, who would seem more easily led by the Spirit than say, his counterpart, a highly intelligent person like Hawkeye Pierce, who must fight through numerous obstacles in his mind to find God and be led by the Spirit. We should heavily weigh the truth found in basic gospel principles versus the truth found elsewhere; the simple saving truths of the gospel are greater than all others. Love is one of these\u2014a very simple concept to understand. We would never consider using the beautiful beatitudes of the Sermon on the Mount as a sword in a battle with other religions; for surely, they were not intended to be used in that way. And we should take this same approach with regard to all teachings of Jesus Christ, and to all scriptures. The message of the restored gospel is not a battering ram, but a manifestation of love and kindness that penetrates one's most intimate feelings. Our goal is not to defeat others inside or outside the Church in rigorous gospel discussions, but to help them (and ourselves) qualify for the presence of the Spirit. If two persons with differing points of view both have peace in their hearts, this is wonderful teaching ground for the Spirit. The battlefield of ideas can create two winners in such a setting rather than one.<\/p>","image_name":"4_4_004_2057132081.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Apple Strudel, Music, and the Spoken Word","summary_id_org":"155","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"4","image_over":"4","item_no":"155"},{"summary_id":"156","book":"4","chapter":"4","caption":"Perfection and Completeness in a Revelation is not Required","image_caption":"Jesus corrects the scriptural<\/br>record with his disciples","image_caption2":"","start_context":"An existing revelation","end_context":"in the due time of the Lord.","page_no":"667","page_content":"","image_name":"4_4_003_2122905102.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Apple Strudel, Music, and the Spoken Word","summary_id_org":"156","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"4","image_over":"3","item_no":"156"}],"5":[{"summary_id":"157","book":"4","chapter":"5","caption":"A Catalyst Needs Both Desire and Humility","image_caption":"Praying with both desire and humility<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The dominant chord is like the spark","end_context":"and to steer a steady course.","page_no":"670","page_content":"
\"The dominant chord is like the spark that ignites us when we have desire in the gospel; whereas, the tonic chord is like the humility and serenity we feel at the end of the day when kneeling together in family prayer. Desire might also be likened to the horse Aldebaran of Ben Hur\u2013\u2013the swift and powerful horse that pulled the chariot along from the outside. Humility is the horse Antares\u2013\u2013the slow and steady horse that anchored the chariot team from the inside, particularly around turns, preventing Aldebaran from taking the chariot off course and out of the charioteer's control. A catalyst for Zion\u2013\u2013a charioteer\u2013\u2013needs desire to excel in the gospel, but he needs also humility and constancy of purpose to stay under control and to steer a steady course.<\/p>","image_name":"B4_Ch2_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Gloria in excelsis Deo","summary_id_org":"157","rand_no":"805766915","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"157"},{"summary_id":"158","book":"4","chapter":"5","caption":"Imagine a Stake Congregation Singing With Power and Energy","image_caption":"A choir raising their voices<\/br>in glory to God","image_caption2":"","start_context":"I asked this question of you for a reason","end_context":"on the move in the gospel!","page_no":"671","page_content":"
\"I asked this question of you for a reason. Imagine if all of our congregations throughout the Church were to stand up and sing the opening hymn of stake conference every month with this same power and energy. Would we even need speakers at all? Perhaps we would, but only as filler to provide rest between great moments of song as we raise our voices in glory to God. <\/p>
<\/p>
\"That, most assuredly, would be the sound of a stake that is on the move in the gospel!<\/p>","image_name":"B4_Ch2_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Gloria in excelsis Deo","summary_id_org":"158","rand_no":"1355507605","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"158"}],"6":[{"summary_id":"159","book":"4","chapter":"6","caption":"\"I AM\" Spoken in an Intimate and Sacred Moment","image_caption":"Wounds in the Savior's hands<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Sitting with Kathleen out in","end_context":"desires, and daily activities.","page_no":"672","page_content":"
Sitting with Kathleen out in the audience, Brother Chandler suddenly felt a sharp pain in the palm of one of his hands. At almost the same time, the words \"I AM\" were spoken to him by the Spirit\u2014a reverberation of another kind, as though the Lord was saying \"Hello\" to him. It was a very intimate and sacred moment; an experience of life to be written down and treasured forever. Like Brother Hancock, he had grown accustomed to hearing these exact words (or some form of them) repeated often by the Lord, having heard them hundreds of times in recent years. Besides the fact that each occurrence was a separate and distinct witness of the existence of God, these words, repeated often, were pleasant reminders of how closely the Lord was watching over them and supervising them, involved in their thoughts, desires, and daily activities.<\/p>","image_name":"4_2_004.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Et in terra pax","summary_id_org":"159","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"6","image_over":"1","item_no":"159"},{"summary_id":"160","book":"4","chapter":"6","caption":"Humility is the Slow Pace; Desire is the Gradual Ascension","image_caption":"Et in terra pax is complemented<\/br>by the cathedral decorations","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Et in terra pax is also very","end_context":"with a perfect brightness of hope.","page_no":"674","page_content":"
Et in terra pax<\/i> is also very intense while it ascends, but this ascension happens gradually; each segment is just one gradation. The listener may perceive the gradation only when the music is about to reach its culmination. If you listen closely, you can feel the tension rising all the way through. These gradual ascendings constantly reach new heights, taking the listener to the top of the mountain where a vision of Zion can be seen. <\/p>
<\/p>
Desire and humility, present in the prior movement, are also found here. Humility is represented by the slow pace of the music\u2013\u2013the sadness, the tragedies, the difficult trials of life, and the need to stay close to the ground on our hands and knees as we move forward through the mist of darkness. Desire is the gradual ascension, the hope for the bright light off at a distance. Humility causes us to be cautious in our assessment of our abilities and to move at a slower pace when seeking to do big things in the gospel. It reminds us of our weaknesses. Yet humility is also a principle of power. It is the means by which our weaknesses can become strengths. Like desire, it stands ready to help us put our shoulder to the wheel and press forward with a perfect brightness of hope.<\/p>","image_name":"4_2_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Et in terra pax","summary_id_org":"160","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"5","image_over":"2","item_no":"160"},{"summary_id":"161","book":"4","chapter":"6","caption":"Everything That is Good in the Church and Good in the World","image_caption":"<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The glory of Zion was felt","end_context":"church and good in the world.","page_no":"675","page_content":"
The glory of Zion was felt, but not completely seen by the audience. Desire and humility were coming together in a beautiful marriage for the listeners, leading them up to the highest realms of this makeshift cathedral in the Conference Center. The music had started a chain reaction where one thing triggers another, unleashing an avalanche of new blessings. There was no new doctrine of the Church being introduced here by the music. It was simply making use of everything that was already good in the Church and good in the world.<\/p>","image_name":"4_2_005.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Et in terra pax","summary_id_org":"161","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"161"}],"7":[{"summary_id":"162","book":"4","chapter":"7","caption":"Gratitude Expressed to God Echos Back on Our Souls","image_caption":"Listening to sacred music<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The first step of a prayer, like","end_context":"as much as she, or even more so.","page_no":"676","page_content":"
\"The first step of a prayer, like we teach investigators of the Church, is to address God. The second step is to express appreciation and give thanks for all our blessings\u2013\u2013to feel gratitude. There are delightful moments in Laudamus te<\/i> when the first soprano sings a beautiful melody that is repeated by the second soprano. This is like the echo effect that gratitude has on our soul. We express thanks to God for something, and we feel good inside because of the love we have shared, and then, immediately, love from our Father in Heaven is returned back to us, filling our souls. Thus, gratitude to God creates love both from within and from without.<\/p>
<\/p>
\"It works the same in our human relationships. When children give heartfelt thanks to their mothers and fathers, they immediately experience something warm and fulfilling inside. When a husband takes his wife in his arms and thanks her for the fine meal she has just prepared, she will almost always reciprocate, giving love back to him for his thoughtfulness and appreciation. Thus, he benefits from the moment as much as she, or even more so.<\/p>","image_name":"4_7_003_230303915.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Laudamus te","summary_id_org":"162","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"7","image_over":"3","item_no":"162"},{"summary_id":"163","book":"4","chapter":"7","caption":"Inspirational Music is Like a Complete Sunday Family Meal","image_caption":"<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Many types of music can be","end_context":"church should seek after it.","page_no":"678","page_content":"
Many types of music can be inspirational, but we should heavily weigh the truth found in sacred and classical music (as well as the softer, more polished music of other genres that we have grown up with and enjoy) against the truth found in music elsewhere. Inspirational music is like a complete family meal on Sundays or at Thanksgiving, having all the side dishes, trimmings, and a fine dessert at the end. Loud and irreverent forms of the music of today found in movies, on TV, or at concerts can be partially uplifting, not uplifting at all, or even destructive to us. They are akin to eating a burger or taco at a fast-food restaurant or devouring a quick microwave dinner. Fast-food music is okay once in a while, but once consumed, it generally leaves you feeling empty and malnourished, making you wonder just what exactly you have \"eaten.\" <\/p>
<\/p>
A person who drinks deeply in the wide variety of performances of the Tabernacle Choir and similar types of music, and does so regularly, a few times a week at least, will likely encounter in their soul all the principles of Zion found in this book. Gratitude and love for sacred and beautiful music, whether as a listener or as a performer, is a heavenly gift. All members of the Church should seek after it.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Laudamus te","summary_id_org":"163","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"163"}],"8":[{"summary_id":"164","book":"4","chapter":"8","caption":"Blinded by the Bright and Beautiful Light of Jesus Christ","image_caption":"\"Do not anger again because<\/br>of mine enemies\"","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Nephi, he being a holy and righteous","end_context":"for who he was––small and insignificant.","page_no":"680","page_content":"
\"Nephi, he being a holy and righteous prophet of God, took a look at himself in a spiritual mirror and saw things he didn't like. Seeing through vision the example of Jesus Christ and His perfect life on earth that would come centuries later, and then developing a personal relationship with Him each day through prayer, can humble a person. In this case, it was a pivotal moment, motivating Nephi to improve upon his performance before God. Blinded by the light of Jesus Christ, he saw himself for who he was\u2013\u2013small and insignificant.<\/p>","image_name":"4_8_002_618711471.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Gratias agimus tibi and Propter magnam gloriam","summary_id_org":"164","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"8","image_over":"2","item_no":"164"},{"summary_id":"165","book":"4","chapter":"8","caption":"Life-Changing Events Can Cause Great Turmoil","image_caption":"A fire burns through us during<\/br>an emotional storm","image_caption2":"","start_context":"In music, the most essential part","end_context":"In this manner, the movement towards Zion begins.","page_no":"681","page_content":"
\"In music, the most essential part of a fugue is the theme. In fact, the whole structure is built around it\u2014it being repeated, or to be more precise, imitated over and over through different voices. You will hear the theme right at the beginning of this movement, representatively sung by the sopranos. You will then hear the other voices follow with a rephrasing of the theme\u2014first the altos, then the tenors, and finally the basses. Notice near the end how the words \"propter\" all come fast one after another. As soon as you hear the first \"propter,\" you then instantly hear another and another. In music, this is called a stretto. It means that the imitation of the theme appears earlier than expected. This creates a sort of 'tight packed' sound. It is very common for a rephrasing of the theme to employ a stretto form. It's a means of summarizing the content, and it brings drama to the piece\u2013\u2013as if the singers are talking fast with excitement.<\/p>
<\/p>
\"This action and reaction scenario might be likened to the way in which we as individuals, we as wards and stakes, and we as a Church interact daily with the Spirit of God. The musical theme is dramatic and passionate, like the emotional fire that burns through our souls during times of adversity, or like the fulness of joy we experience when long sought-after blessings are finally realized in our lives. In both cases, they are life-changing events. The resulting humility or gratitude in each case causes us to pray with greater fervor. Through our prayers, we blow air through a bellows upon the fire of our spirits, causing the flames to become stronger. The Spirit, seeing our efforts, then blows upon the fire with a bellows of His own. A game of leapfrog then occurs, in which we strive to do more and more, growing stronger in faith and love, and further stoking the fire. In this manner, the movement towards Zion begins.<\/p>","image_name":"4_8_003_470680681.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Gratias agimus tibi and Propter magnam gloriam","summary_id_org":"165","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"8","image_over":"3","item_no":"165"}],"9":[{"summary_id":"166","book":"4","chapter":"9","caption":"The Pure Love of Christ Built the City of Enoch","image_caption":"Imagine to be approaching the<\/br>gates of the City of Enoch!","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Imagine approaching the gates of that","end_context":"only joy, in the heavens for the city of Enoch!","page_no":"682","page_content":"
\"Imagine approaching the gates of that great city in the years before it became Zion. At its start, it probably had many things like other cities of its time. Works of faith on the part of many, including the prophet Enoch, set the foundation for what came later. It was not so much a matter of laying out plots of land for houses, buildings, or streets, nor was it a matter of specific city laws needing to be established or government buildings constructed. We can be sure the city of Enoch had all of the things it needed in that respect, but ultimately, it was the love of God that built the city of Enoch. It was built by persons just like us\u2013\u2013persons obedient to the Lord\u2019s commandments and His called servants on earth. The Spirit spoke to them in their prayers, and they listened; parents listened, and children listened. Therefore, there was no weeping, only joy, in the heavens for the city of Enoch!<\/p>","image_name":"B4_Ch9_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Domine Deus","summary_id_org":"166","rand_no":"502571330","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"166"}],"10":[{"summary_id":"167","book":"4","chapter":"10","caption":"Movement Towards Zion Blesses Most Those in Need","image_caption":"Zion-like aspirations will bring<\/br>hope to the needy most of all","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Remember also that the success we make","end_context":"increases their joy the most.","page_no":"686","page_content":"
\"Remember also that the success we make towards Zion is particularly sweet for those among us who are suffering: the orphans, the poor, the disabled, the elderly, the sad, the single persons and single-parent families, the lonely, the unemployed, the afflicted with diseases, and so many more! Hope for a better tomorrow is important for everyone, but most especially for these of our Heavenly Father's children who cry daily to the Lord for relief from their sufferings. They need to feel our love more directly, and the movement towards Zion increases their joy the most.<\/p>","image_name":"B4_Ch10_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Domine, Fili unigenite","summary_id_org":"167","rand_no":"689421924","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"167"},{"summary_id":"168","book":"4","chapter":"10","caption":"Celestial Laws Are Not Forced Upon Anyone","image_caption":"The law of consecration is left in<\/br>the hands of the members","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Without a doubt, the law of","end_context":"building of Zion.","page_no":"687","page_content":"
\"Without a doubt, the law of consecration is a key foundation upon which Zion is built. The law of consecration goes beyond the routine decisions we make every day about money and possessions. How and why we do things is just as important as what we do. This is not a law, however, that members of the Church will be commanded to obey by someone speaking from this pulpit. Celestial laws cannot be forced upon any one of us\u2013\u2013not by God Himself, and not by Church leaders. The same is true of the celestial kingdom\u2013\u2013entrance therein is not forced upon us; obedience to its law is voluntary. It is something all of us must study out in our minds and ponder thoroughly. It is not the performance of a single good act on a given day, but the consecration of one's time, talents, and economic resources to the work of the Lord over a lifetime. It is a marathon run, not a sprint. We work towards it as best we can, in line with our faith, and as our individual circumstances permit. <\/p>
<\/p>
\"It is the will of the Lord that obedience to this law be left in the hands of the members of the Church and that we seek the guidance of the Spirit to help us apply it in our lives. It is therefore us, we the people, who decide how the law of consecration will be implemented in the Church. The same is true of the building of Zion.<\/p>","image_name":"4_10_002_1291230131.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"Y","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Hymn of Zion - Domine, Fili unigenite","summary_id_org":"168","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"10","image_over":"2","item_no":"168"}],"11":[{"summary_id":"169","book":"4","chapter":"11","caption":"Performing a Miracle of Great Significance Before the World","image_caption":"The Savior of the world<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Delighted by the faith and obedience","end_context":"make spectacular things happen.","page_no":"689","page_content":"
Delighted by the faith and obedience of the members of His Church, and the manner in which they had embraced the principles of Zion in recent years, the Lord one day came to a decision\u2013\u2013He would bring to pass a miracle of great significance before the eyes of the world. This was not something that had been previously prophesied or even alluded to indirectly in the scriptures; rather, it was just something that the Lord wanted to do\u2014under the direction of the Father\u2014at this time in the earth's history, for He is God, even the Savior of the world. He can interact with the inhabitants of the earth at any time and for any reason and make spectacular things happen.<\/p>","image_name":"4_3_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Exhibit at Temple Square","summary_id_org":"169","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"11","image_over":"1","item_no":"169"},{"summary_id":"170","book":"4","chapter":"11","caption":"A Reputable Institution and a Powerful Force for Good","image_caption":"A credible worldwide organization<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Whatever perceived differences people","end_context":"wrong spot all of their lives.","page_no":"690","page_content":"
Whatever perceived differences people had with beliefs of the restored Church of Jesus Christ, the Church, recognized throughout the world for its charitable works, was well-respected by virtually every sane and reasonable person, and even by some of the unreasonable ones as well. News reporters, therefore, had no doubts that the invitation was legitimate. <\/p>
<\/p>
On something of this magnitude, if the Church was not a credible organization, the entire affair would be a one- or two-day news story and quickly dismissed. But the Church was a reputable institution and a powerful force for good in the world\u2014something clearly evident by the way people were reacting to the announcement. Those who held unfavorable views of the Church felt a nervousness in their stomachs, wondering\u2014like Coco being swept off the dining room chair by Carolyn\u2014if they had been sitting in the wrong spot all of their lives.<\/p>","image_name":"4_3_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Exhibit at Temple Square","summary_id_org":"170","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"11","image_over":"2","item_no":"170"},{"summary_id":"171","book":"4","chapter":"11","caption":"What Will God Reveal Today? What Will He Reveal Tomorrow?","image_caption":"The spirit of revelation<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"And it must be said that","end_context":"repent to those who are not.","page_no":"690","page_content":"","image_name":"B4_Ch3_3.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"Exhibit at Temple Square","summary_id_org":"171","rand_no":"983631650","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"171"}],"12":[{"summary_id":"172","book":"4","chapter":"12","caption":"A Spiritual Witness of the Book of Mormon is Required","image_caption":"The episode of<\/br>Charles Anthon is repeated","image_caption2":"","start_context":"With all of this having transpired,","end_context":"bored and set it aside afterward.","page_no":"696","page_content":"
With all of this having transpired, the question now was: Would this dramatic sign from God change the hearts of the people of the world? <\/p>
<\/p>
And also, would the knowledge newly obtained help many of the world, if not all, embrace the teachings of the Book of Mormon, of the other modern-day scriptures, and of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in general?<\/p>
<\/p>
The answer, tragically, was no. <\/p>
<\/p>
Scientific evidence of the Book of Mormon, as it turned out, was really nice to have, but it was not something that had a lasting impact on people's lives. Millions believed and started to investigate the restored Church of Jesus Christ immediately, but their numbers were still small relative to the earth's population. Much of the world followed the news story while it was hot, especially during the two weeks leading up to the presentation, but then they became busy with their own lives again and lost interest, as though they had been watching the Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games or some other public event instead. <\/p>
<\/p>
Many millions more, who had procured a copy of the Book of Mormon as a novelty in reaction to the publicity, may have read a few chapters initially, but then they became bored and set it aside afterward.<\/p>","image_name":"4_12_004_2014204253.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"The World Reacts","summary_id_org":"172","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"12","image_over":"4","item_no":"172"}],"14":[{"summary_id":"173","book":"4","chapter":"14","caption":"Increased Excitement and Momentum in the Gospel","image_caption":"Establishing new stake choirs<\/br>and new stake orchestras","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The Springville East Stake, on","end_context":"the world around us begins to feel it.","page_no":"703","page_content":"
The Springville East Stake, on the move towards its next frontier in the gospel, the three-dollar lawn, was like a train moving down the tracks at great speed, full of momentum. Zion is about the love of God, about the law of consecration, about beautiful music, about desire, and about humility, but it is also about momentum\u2013\u2013the increased excitement and joy of the gospel present in the lives of its people. Individual members feel it, families feel it, wards and stakes feel it, the Church as a whole feels it and, ultimately, the world around us begins to feel it.<\/p>","image_name":"4_4_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"The Three-Dollar Lawn","summary_id_org":"173","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"14","image_over":"1","item_no":"173"}],"15":[{"summary_id":"174","book":"4","chapter":"15","caption":"The Greatest Blessings of God Are Available to Everyone","image_caption":"Adam and Eve in the<\/br>Garden of Eden","image_caption2":"","start_context":"In dramatic fashion","end_context":"obedience, and works of faith.","page_no":"704","page_content":"
In dramatic fashion, they had suddenly breached a new frontier of spiritual gifts. But, of course, the other gifts of the Spirit were still there for them. Spiritual gifts are additive. When you receive a new one from the Lord, you don't forfeit any of those that He has previously given to you. In this case, a fairly significant one had just been bestowed upon Mark and Kathleen. As a result, their faith in God had never been greater. The sudden appearance of an angel, or the appearance of the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, on their next walk through the garden, would not have surprised them.<\/p>
<\/p>
Helping each individual, each married couple, each family, and each stake of the Church reach heights such as these in their relationship with God is the goal of this book. The greatest blessings of God on earth and in heaven are not reserved exclusively for prophets, seers, apostles, and other Church leaders. They are given freely to all based on their love of God, obedience, and works of faith.<\/p>","image_name":"B4_Ch15_1.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"In the Light of Noonday","summary_id_org":"174","rand_no":"944275746","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"174"}],"16":[{"summary_id":"175","book":"4","chapter":"16","caption":"Having Things in Common","image_caption":"A wonderful life, a wonderful couple<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Thus, more and more, the people","end_context":"that is what life on earth was meant to be.","page_no":"708","page_content":"
Thus, more and more, the people of Springville were beginning to have things in common. The needs of others had become more of a concern than their own personal needs... like the rich, middle class, and poor all coming together, one by one, and of their own accord, at the dining room table of George and Mary Bailey to help someone in need.<\/p>
<\/p>
A wonderful life, as in the famous movie, and a wonderful Church, as in the ideal represented by the stories and principles in this book\u2013\u2013that is what life on earth was meant to be.<\/p>","image_name":"4_4_006.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Beauty the World Has Never Seen","chapter_title":"The Sharing of Wealth","summary_id_org":"175","rand_no":"","bk_over":"4","ch_over":"16","image_over":"3","item_no":"175"}]},"5":{"1":[{"summary_id":"176","book":"5","chapter":"1","caption":"The Knowledge of Heaven and Earth","image_caption":"The light of Christ helps us<\/br>to choose right from wrong","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The combined knowledge of all men","end_context":"our testimonies of the restored gospel.","page_no":"710","page_content":"
The combined knowledge of all men on earth, and the knowledge which is shared with man from heaven, might be organized into the following three spheres:<\/p>
<\/p>
Sphere-1, the spiritual layer.<\/p>
<\/p>
Sphere-2, the light of Christ\u2014the common sense or basic reasoning layer.<\/p>
<\/p>
Sphere-3, the raw data and information layer.<\/p>
<\/p>
Sphere-1, the spiritual layer, could itself be broken into two separate sections of its own. The first section is faith in God, and the second section is love of God. The primary goal of this book is to help us as a people move from faith in God to love of God.<\/p>
<\/p>
Sphere-2, the light of Christ, is the main operational layer of our mortal existence on earth. Here, we reason things out in our minds, make decisions about right and wrong, and try to make sense of everything that comes to us through our five senses. Here, also, is where we decide whether to make use of (or lay aside) any spiritual knowledge we gain in life.<\/p>
<\/p>
Sphere-3 is the raw data we receive and digest every day, the vast knowledge of the world compiled by man over many centuries; everything that is available to us through the media, on the internet, in discussions with family, friends, and neighbors, and in our classes at school, at universities, and at church; all earthly sources of information; all facts, theories, opinions, and non-facts; everything that is important, and everything that is trivial. Included in these are the arguments and evidences presented by some that challenge our faith in Christ and our testimonies of the restored gospel.<\/p>","image_name":"5_1_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Spheres of Knowledge","summary_id_org":"176","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"1","image_over":"1","item_no":"176"},{"summary_id":"177","book":"5","chapter":"1","caption":"Supervising the Information We Receive from the World","image_caption":"Five minutes looking into heaven...<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Empowered by the light of Christ","end_context":"close supervision every day.","page_no":"710","page_content":"
Empowered by the light of Christ, we become managers, decision makers, and information consumers as we grow from child to adult. Scientists, philosophers, political leaders, commentators, news anchors, schoolteachers, teachers of religion (including Latter-day Saint ones), and other purveyors of information are like employees or staff persons that report to us, providing detailed information about the world. Much of what we experience in life is good, insightful, and helpful to our growth in mortality, but there is a great deal that is not. We need to manage both the good and the bad through close supervision every day.<\/p>","image_name":"5_1_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Spheres of Knowledge","summary_id_org":"177","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"1","image_over":"3","item_no":"177"},{"summary_id":"178","book":"5","chapter":"1","caption":"Education Received From on High Has a Multiplier Effect","image_caption":"Spiritual confirmation of knowledge gained by study is powerful<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Formal education we receive","end_context":"and it exceeds all earthly things.","page_no":"712","page_content":"
Formal education we receive on earth is good, but it is nothing compared to the education received from on high. Spiritual knowledge has a multiplier effect on all earthly knowledge that we obtain in this life. It is also the most desirable and valuable of all the spheres of knowledge, and it exceeds all earthly things.<\/p>","image_name":"B5_Ch1_3.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Spheres of Knowledge","summary_id_org":"178","rand_no":"1864800828","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"178"}],"2":[{"summary_id":"179","book":"5","chapter":"2","caption":"The Marvelous Life of Joseph Smith","image_caption":"Joseph Smith, a prophet<\/br>and seer of God","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We truly marvel at the life of","end_context":"resurrection of the just) are great treasures.","page_no":"713","page_content":"
We truly marvel at the life of Joseph Smith. The Spirit touched his heart in most everything he did and said. His formal education, like that of many other great men of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, was limited. But that didn't stop him. When studying Church history, one is quite impressed even with his common, everyday words and acts as leader of the Church\u2013\u2013his letters, his notes from his duties in office, his lectures and writings on faith, his service to others, his blessings of the sick, his priesthood ordinations, and the mighty miracles he wrought. They all read like scriptures, having an inherent majesty and power in them like the writings of the greatest prophets of old. Even his opinions (like Alma the Younger giving his opinion as to the timing of the resurrection of the just) are great treasures.<\/p>","image_name":"5_2_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part I","summary_id_org":"179","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"2","image_over":"1","item_no":"179"},{"summary_id":"180","book":"5","chapter":"2","caption":"Honesty and Humility Are Great Communication Tools","image_caption":"We should be humble when<\/br>bearing our testimonies","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Faith and confidence in one's","end_context":"and feel good about in your heart.","page_no":"716","page_content":"
Faith and confidence in one's testimony of God and religious beliefs is important, but humility in one's testimony is even more important, especially when sharing it with others. All people have doubts and worries about their status before God and the imperfections inherent in their belief system. Honesty and humility are great tools to reach across from one religion or one set of beliefs to another. One who seeks to bear testimony of truth of any kind, and is not humble before God in that testimony, must repent, for God does not work through the proud and arrogant, he works through the meek and humble. Showing forth humility when testifying of all that is in your heart is also a form of love. The other person can more easily receive your words and appreciate your sincerity, linking their imperfect knowledge of God with yours. Instead of using your testimony as a weapon and, perhaps, striking down a hard blow upon the beliefs of others, you testify to them as one having a strong but imperfect knowledge and as one filled with love, for a testimony based on a love of God, a love for all of His sons and daughters, and a love for all of the beautiful animals and creatures that live with us on this earth, is more powerful and effective than any other and, most especially, more powerful than one based merely on a technical knowledge of God derived from the scriptures or religious education materials. If you are not completely sure about something when you testify, be clear about which part of the truth you are confident about and which part you are not. As you sincerely express to someone the incompleteness of your testimony, and all of the things you are doing to try to strengthen it, the Spirit may come forth in that very moment to provide you additional insight and a stronger, more powerful testimony. And if it is the case that you are wrong, then your sincerity is equally good there as well. The Spirit can come forth and testify to you of that which is right to replace that which is wrong. Thus, there is never a reason to ever \"over testify\" to others about gospel truths, whether it be in Church meetings, among friends, or in the mission field. Testify only of those things you know and feel good about in your heart.<\/p>","image_name":"5_2_004.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part I","summary_id_org":"180","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"2","image_over":"4","item_no":"180"},{"summary_id":"181","book":"5","chapter":"2","caption":"The Wonderful Legacy of Mainstream Christianity","image_caption":"The Pilgrims sail to America<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"On the other hand, we must","end_context":"this world, but do they hear?","page_no":"718","page_content":"
On the other hand, we must not forget the wonderful legacy of mainstream Christianity in America, and in Western culture generally. The Pilgrims and other fine people from Europe who came before us built the foundation of this great country. Christians in America and throughout the world (as well as the vast populations of the earth that belong to other religions) pray to God, enjoy family life, read scriptures, and experience miracles in much the same way we do. They are in many cases led by fine leaders who are righteous men and women. It is the small number of very vocal opponents of the Church among them that we tend to take the most issue with. But we shouldn't judge the entire Christian world based on the acts of evil done by these few. Good, sincere worship of deity, to the best of one's knowledge, is what all of us should strive for. Those who have done their best to find the truth in this life, to follow their consciences and choose the right, and to obey the commandments in the best way they know how, will not be denied entrance to the kingdom of God. For some, the opportunity to hear the true gospel for the first time may come after their lives are over and before they are resurrected. Nevertheless, the Ghost of Jacob Marley screams and rattles his chains at all men and women of this world, but do they hear?<\/p>","image_name":"5_2_006.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"6","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part I","summary_id_org":"181","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"2","image_over":"6","item_no":"181"},{"summary_id":"182","book":"5","chapter":"2","caption":"Enemies of the Church Should Stop their Terrible Work","image_caption":"Mainstream Christians would disavow persecuting other religions<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"As for this small group","end_context":"contrary to your own Christian beliefs.","page_no":"719","page_content":"
As for this small group of opponents of the Church who walk the earth today, the Ghost of Jacob Marley screams loudest at you. Pause yourself in the terrible work you are doing and consider this\u2013\u2013If mainstream Christianity had fully captured what the Savior wanted us to have from the New Testament and Old Testament only, and there was no need for a restoration of the gospel, He would still look fondly upon the good Christlike manners and attitudes of Latter-day Saints. To say this plainly\u2014there is no place in the gospel of Jesus Christ, and most especially inside of mainstream Christianity, for the persecution or belittling of other religions. Persecution is not debate. Persecution is not a truth-seeking activity. Mocking the beliefs of others and embarking upon destructive crusades to denigrate them leads only to personal ruin in the end. And it surely will not lead to the salvation of your souls. Latter-day Saints are known the world over to be outstanding people and Christlike in both word and deed. So to mock them and speak negatively of them to others is to deny reality and live contrary to your own Christian beliefs.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"X","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part I","summary_id_org":"182","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"182"},{"summary_id":"183","book":"5","chapter":"2","caption":"How Would God Reveal Himself to Man in Modern Times?","image_caption":"If not 1820, then when? If not Joseph Smith, then who?<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"What would be the manner","end_context":"for the entire Christian world.","page_no":"720","page_content":"
What would be the manner in which God, of his own free will and choice, and without first seeking approval from any of the religious leaders then alive in 1820, would reveal himself to man?<\/p>
<\/p>
And who would be the man or woman chosen by the Lord to receive such a visitation or important revelation? If not 1820, then when? If not Joseph Smith, then whom? A Baptist minister of Palmyra or a lay member of his congregation? Someone else from another small town or a large city of the world? A bishop, a cardinal, or the Pope in Rome? Is there anyone alive even today, an authoritative representative of mainstream Christianity to whom we can address this question? In response to such a question, we might receive a wide variety of interesting answers, but not one that speaks for the entire Christian world.<\/p>","image_name":"5_2_008.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"8","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part I","summary_id_org":"183","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"2","image_over":"8","item_no":"183"},{"summary_id":"184","book":"5","chapter":"2","caption":"Revelation is the Stumbling Block for Mainstream Christianity","image_caption":"A new testament of Jesus Christ<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Let's assume that, in 1820 or another","end_context":"stumbling block for the Christian world.","page_no":"722","page_content":"","image_name":"5_2_011.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part I","summary_id_org":"184","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"3","image_over":"1","item_no":"184"},{"summary_id":"185","book":"5","chapter":"2","caption":"Joseph Smith Was Unique in Modern History","image_caption":"Joseph Smith translating<\/br>the Book of Mormon","image_caption2":"","start_context":"One looking at the life","end_context":"bolster it and build upon it.","page_no":"723","page_content":"
One looking at the life and testimony of Joseph Smith, in comparison with all of the others outside of the Bible, whether they are well known or unknown to the general public, will quickly realize that he was fairly unique. He described the nature of God the Father, His Son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost in very specific terms, and he acquired this knowledge in not just one, but in numerous encounters. He then brought forth a whole range of new scriptures, not to supersede or invalidate the Bible, but to bolster it and build upon it.<\/p>","image_name":"5_2_012.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part I","summary_id_org":"185","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"3","image_over":"2","item_no":"185"}],"3":[{"summary_id":"186","book":"5","chapter":"3","caption":"The Core Argument in Support of Joseph Smith's Testimony","image_caption":"The simple truth is that<\/br>Joseph's testimony is true","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Now, to introduce the","end_context":"with advanced college degrees.","page_no":"724","page_content":"
Now, to introduce the core argument\u2014the simple logic that establishes the truthfulness of Joseph Smith's testimony. It is based on probability, reason, and common sense.<\/p>
<\/p>
Here is what we have (the IEH acronym is short for Important Event of History):<\/p>
<\/p>
(IEH1) The public claim of a fourteen-year-old boy in 1820 of a very unique heavenly vision.<\/p>
<\/p>
(IEH2) The coming forth of new, very sophisticated volumes of scripture (The Book of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price) in 1830, and over the subsequent years, with eleven men provided to the world as additional witnesses beyond Joseph himself.<\/p>
<\/p>
(IEH3) The overwhelming success of a worldwide church and organization more than 190 years later that sets the standard of excellence for all other religious and secular institutions of the world to follow.<\/p>
<\/p>
If you look at these three things together with the benefit of hindsight, when does common sense start to take over in one's analysis of fact? In looking at the complete picture of the Church up to today, it seems not just unlikely, but virtually impossible that all of this came together as part of a fraudulent scheme or a misguided adventure of a fourteen-year-old boy from Palmyra, New York of the early 1800s. The power of God is the only rational explanation.<\/p>
<\/p>
Pay close attention to the follow-on relationship of IEH2 to IEH1. All of this discussion of heavenly visions by the young Joseph Smith came about ten years BEFORE the Book of Mormon was published, and long BEFORE the revelations that now comprise the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price were published to the world. Think about the timing of all of this for a moment. A young teenager who had purposely made up a story like this, and who had gone into the public eye with it in 1820 to fool people and aggrandize himself, would have had an incredibly difficult time following it up years later by manufacturing something of the magnitude and complexity of the Book of Mormon and the other two volumes of scriptures. The probability of something like that happening would seem to be pretty small. Critics of the Church almost always forget this simple fact\u2013\u2013the supporting relationship of key events on the timeline of Joseph Smith's testimony. IEH2 provides a strong testimony in support of IEH1, and IEH3 provides a strong testimony in support of both IEH1 and IEH2. <\/p>
<\/p>
And with respect once again to the Book of Mormon alone, for a fourteen-year-old boy to declare he had seen a vision of God is one thing, but then, seven years later in 1827, to somehow assemble and start managing a very complex \"Book of Mormon\" fraud team comprised of himself, his wife, Oliver Cowdery, and Martin Harris\u2014any one of whom could have pulled the plug on such a scheme at any point and gone public with what was really going on (Martin Harris's wife, in fact, had hoped to do just that)\u2014that is surely quite ridiculous. Yet, as some would have you believe, the members of this talented team all worked hard together over a very stressful couple of years inventing Book of Mormon stories, historical settings, character names and personalities, sophisticated new doctrines, and so forth\u2014doctrines perhaps considered wrongheaded on their face in relation to mainstream Christian views of the day, but numerous enough, deep enough, and internally consistent enough to continually fool many millions of persons over the next two centuries, including countless scholars and highly educated persons with advanced college degrees.<\/p>","image_name":"5_2_005.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"5","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part II","summary_id_org":"186","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"2","image_over":"5","item_no":"186"},{"summary_id":"187","book":"5","chapter":"3","caption":"Don't Read the BOM in an Overly Technical, Drive-By Manner","image_caption":"Mark Twain<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"These profound and very important","end_context":"the Spirit of God both at the same time.","page_no":"727","page_content":"
These profound and very important topics and principles of the book, as well as many others, were all largely missed by Mark Twain and other persons who have read the book in a similar overly-technical, drive-by manner. They claw at it from the outside, seeking to find something in their reading that justifies their opposition to the Church or to organized religion in general\u2014reading the Book of Mormon the same way they read the Bible\u2014but they are not able to actually see and feel anything in their souls. The book is filled with inspiring sentences that are punctuated by the Spirit and intended to lead men to Christ. To somehow compare the words of the Book of Mormon (other than direct quotes of prophets from the brass plates, like Isaiah) with those found in the Bible, and then consider them as some kind of copy and paste plagiarism, is to deny common sense and the Spirit of God both at the same time.<\/p>","image_name":"B5_Ch3_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part II","summary_id_org":"187","rand_no":"341690572","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"187"},{"summary_id":"188","book":"5","chapter":"3","caption":"Why the Book of Mormon is Better","image_caption":"The prophet\/historian Mormon<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"What is missing in the Bible","end_context":"capability of their own.","page_no":"727","page_content":"
What is missing in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament, but also in the New Testament, is a prophet historian like Mormon having all the writings of the other prophets and apostles before him, organzing, commenting, summarizing, omitting some books entirely while leaving other books intact and in their fulness. This is one of the key reasons why the Book of Mormon is better. It was edited by a prophet of God and not a king-appointed commission of men doing the best they could with no direct revelation capability of their own.<\/p>","image_name":"5_2_014.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"4","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part II","summary_id_org":"188","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"3","image_over":"4","item_no":"188"},{"summary_id":"189","book":"5","chapter":"3","caption":"The Book of Mormon Was Not a Creative Writing Project","image_caption":"Famous writers of the past<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We could have taken the twenty best","end_context":"have written the Book of Mormon.","page_no":"729","page_content":"
We could have taken the twenty best writers of the nineteenth century (Mark Twain could be among them), gathered them into a single room in upstate New York in 1827, given them copies of View of the Hebrews<\/i>, all of Solomon Spalding's writings, the Bible, and any other book or books in print at the time, but they still would not have been able to create anything remotely close to the Book of Mormon that came off the presses to the world for the first time in 1830. Collectively as a group, they would have been able to do amazing things, creating impressive writings and novels, but not anything with the power and majesty of the Book of Mormon. <\/p>
<\/p>
Even the inspired writers who are greatly admired and referenced repeatedly by the author throughout this book\u2013\u2013Victor Hugo (Les Miserables<\/i>), Charles Dickens (A Christmas Carol<\/i>), and Lew Wallace (Ben Hur<\/i>)\u2013\u2013could not have written the Book of Mormon.<\/p>","image_name":"5_2_016.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"6","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part II","summary_id_org":"189","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"3","image_over":"6","item_no":"189"},{"summary_id":"190","book":"5","chapter":"3","caption":"Four Examples of Basic Reasoning and BOM Sophistication","image_caption":"The Book of Mormon<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We could provide many","end_context":"never happened in the first place.","page_no":"729","page_content":"
We could provide many, but here are four examples of how a simple read and review of a few verses of the Book of Mormon shows obvious sophistication. <\/p>
<\/p>
A first example: <\/p>
<\/p>
Many members of the Church have probably realized\u2013\u2013to their astonishment\u2013\u2013that the word \"happiness\" does not occur in the King James Bible at all, either in the Old Testament or the New Testament. But it occurs in twenty-six verses of the Book of Mormon. So, with respect to verses, stories, and teachings involving this particular word at least, there was no copy and paste operation going on from the Bible.<\/p>
<\/p>
\"Happiness!\" What a fantastic word to be referenced throughout a volume of new scripture claiming to contain the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ! And what an important word to be found, unfortunately, missing from the Bible. But it's not just the fact that the word \"happiness\" is used in the Book of Mormon, or the frequency of its use. The amazing part is HOW it is used. These happen to be some of the most important, powerful, and beautiful verses of the book.<\/p>
<\/p>
Here are seventeen verses using \"happiness\" to enjoy\u2013\u2013<\/p>
<\/p>
(1) Do not suppose, because it has been spoken concerning restoration, that ye shall be restored from sin to happiness. Behold, I say unto you, wickedness never was happiness. <\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(<\/i>2<\/i>) But behold this my joy was vain, for their sorrowing was not unto repentance, because of the goodness of God; but it was rather the sorrowing of the damned, because the Lord would not always suffer them to take happiness in sin.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(<\/i>3<\/i>) Now was not this exceeding joy? Behold, this is joy which none receiveth save it be the truly penitent and humble seeker of happiness.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(4<\/i>) For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things. If not so, my firstborn in the wilderness, righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad. Wherefore, all things must needs be a compound in one; wherefore, if it should be one body it must needs remain as dead, having no life neither death, nor corruption nor incorruption, happiness nor misery, neither sense nor insensibility.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(<\/i>5<\/i>) And if there be no righteousness there be no happiness. And if there be no righteousness nor happiness there be no punishment nor misery.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(<\/i>6<\/i>) Now, repentance could not come unto men except there were a punishment, which also was eternal as the life of the soul should be, affixed opposite to the plan of happiness, which was as eternal also as the life of the soul.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(7<\/i>) But whether it be at his resurrection or after, I do not say; but this much I say, that there is a space between death and the resurrection of the body, and a state of the soul in happiness or in misery until the time which is appointed of God that the dead shall come forth, and be reunited, both soul and body, and be brought to stand before God, and be judged according to their works.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(<\/i>8<\/i>) Now, there are some that have understood that this state of happiness and this state of misery of the soul, before the resurrection, was a first resurrection. Yea, I admit it may be termed a resurrection, the raising of the spirit or the soul and their consignation to happiness or misery, according to the words which have been spoken.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(<\/i>9<\/i>) And in one year were thousands and tens of thousands of souls sent to the eternal world, that they might reap their rewards according to their works, whether they were good or whether they were bad, to reap eternal happiness or eternal misery, according to the spirit which they listed to obey, whether it be a good spirit or a bad one.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(10<\/i>) While many thousands of others truly mourn for the loss of their kindred, yet they rejoice and exult in the hope, and even know, according to the promises of the Lord, that they are raised to dwell at the right hand of God, in a state of never-ending happiness.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(<\/i>11<\/i>) The one raised to happiness according to his desires of happiness, or good according to his desires of good; and the other to evil according to his desires of evil.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(12)<\/i> And it came to pass that we lived after the manner of happiness.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(<\/i>13<\/i>) Now behold, it was not expedient that man should be reclaimed from this temporal death, for that would destroy the great plan of happiness.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(<\/i>14<\/i>) But the things of the wise and the prudent shall be hid from them forever\u2014yea, that happiness which is prepared for the saints.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(1<\/i>5<\/i>) And if their works are evil they shall be restored unto them for evil. Therefore, all things shall be restored to their proper order, every thing to its natural frame\u2014mortality raised to immortality, corruption to incorruption\u2014raised to endless happiness to inherit the kingdom of God, or to endless misery to inherit the kingdom of the devil, the one on one hand, the other on the other\u2014<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(16<\/i>) But behold, your days of probation are past; ye have procrastinated the day of your salvation until it is everlastingly too late, and your destruction is made sure; yea, for ye have sought all the days of your lives for that which ye could not obtain; and ye have sought for happiness in doing iniquity, which thing is contrary to the nature of that righteousness which is in our great and Eternal Head.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
(1<\/i>7<\/i>) And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.<\/i><\/p>
<\/p>
As you can see, the word \"happiness\" was not arbitrarily used in these verses to simply fill space in a book pretending to be something it is not. The fulness, the power, and the majesty of the gospel of Jesus Christ is clearly on display. Only men filled with the spirit of revelation and prophecy could speak or write words such as these.<\/p>
<\/p>
A second example:<\/p>
<\/p>
Compare 3rd Nephi 12:48 to Matthew 5:48. Any good Sunday School teacher in the Church will be well familiar with these two verses and the subtle difference.<\/p>
<\/p>
New Testament version: Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.<\/p>
<\/p>
Book of Mormon version: Therefore I would that ye should be perfect even as I, or your Father who is in heaven is perfect.<\/p>
<\/p>
The key difference here is that Christ, who has now taken the sins of the whole world upon himself, who has now completed His work in mortality, and who is appearing in resurrected form to the remaining Nephites and Lamanites of the Western hemisphere, now proclaims himself as perfect as well. A change to the sermon that is significant given the new circumstances.<\/p>
<\/p>
This is the kind of attention to detail (of which there are so many!) that a more modern, multimillion-dollar fraud team, one comprised of twenty or thirty full-time creative writers working together on the same floor of a corporate office building, might demonstrate in their book writing, but probably not a small budget three- or four-man fraud team of the late 1820s\u2013\u2013a team with limited talent, knowledge, and resources working feverishly to get some kind of foundation book printed and out the door quickly to launch their false religion and enjoy all of the \u201cbenefits\u201d that it entails.<\/p>
<\/p>
A third example:<\/p>
<\/p>
There is the reference to sheep of another fold in John 10:16, which is then expounded upon in the Book of Mormon in 3rd Nephi 15\u2013\u2013missionaries and most members of the Church know both of these scriptures very well. To pull this one verse out from the New Testament, and then to have the resurrected Christ expound upon it in such a profound way\u2013\u2013building a doctrinal foundation for the coming forth of the Book of Mormon itself\u2013\u2013seems much more than just one man's (or one fraud group's) genius. It makes everything fit together nicely, as if it were a link between the two books provided by God Himself (which it was) that was thought out from the beginning. This is more attention to detail that just doesn't fit the narrative that critics of the Church and of the Book of Mormon want us to believe.<\/p>
<\/p>
A fourth example:<\/p>
<\/p>
Read the beautiful Psalm of Nephi\u2013\u20132nd Nephi Chapter 4: 15-35\u2013\u2013and then ponder seriously what you find there. How could someone just snap their fingers and come up with something like this? It's slightly more beautiful and slightly more powerful than what your typical criminal conspiracist\/plagiarist could come up with. In fact, the fraud-team writer assigned to 2nd Nephi, after having put down on paper powerful and glorious words like these, and then having stopped for a moment to read them, might have felt the desire to bow down before his creator and repent of his sins right then and there, causing him to resign from the project and abandon his evil design to undermine mainstream Christianity. In fact, the message of repentance and faith in Christ found throughout the Book of Mormon is so powerful that it would have probably brought some or all of the fraud team members to repent of their sins very early on in the process, with the result being that the sinful act of bringing a fraudulent book to press would never happened in the first place.<\/p>","image_name":"5_2_017.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"7","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, Part II","summary_id_org":"190","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"3","image_over":"7","item_no":"190"}],"4":[{"summary_id":"191","book":"5","chapter":"4","caption":"The Appearance of an Angel to Man is Conclusive Evidence","image_caption":"An angel proclaims the<\/br>birth of Jesus Christ","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The sudden appearance of an angel","end_context":"which they choose to ignore.","page_no":"736","page_content":"
The sudden appearance of an angel of God to man on earth, as in Judeo-Christian tradition, instantly invalidates all theories of mankind that challenge the existence of God. It is that simple, and is conclusive in the matter, ending the debate once and for all. There is no counterargument past, present or future that can withstand such an occurrence. And, of course, we should add that the personal appearance of God Himself on earth (or the Son of God) is all the more conclusive.<\/p>
<\/p>
It is not required that a representative of the scientific community actually be present when such a visitation occurs for this to be of effect, for we are all accountable to the truth whether we are personally able to see something others have seen or not. <\/p>
<\/p>
Those who argue against the existence of God make the argument (correctly) that we who believe in God, if we choose to ignore important discoveries documented in scientific journals (or visible to the public in museums or on TV documentaries), are nonetheless accountable to the truth in the end. Yes, that is certainly true. But the same is also true the other way. The unbelievers of the world, whose faith and dreams for the future of mankind are built on a materialistic view of the universe, are very much accountable to any and all established truths of the earth's history which they choose to ignore.<\/p>","image_name":"5_3_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Faith in God: Simple Reasoning","summary_id_org":"191","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"4","image_over":"1","item_no":"191"},{"summary_id":"192","book":"5","chapter":"4","caption":"Increased Knowledge is the Natural Birthright of Science","image_caption":"Science must be humble<\/br>and bow before God","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The existence of God, once","end_context":"important truths of man's existence first.","page_no":"737","page_content":"
The existence of God, once verified by science in the eyes of the people, is the ultimate game changer, opening up new avenues of research and the opportunity for many more important discoveries. For this reason, it is the number one priority of science to search out, to investigate, and to know these things in order to provide the world an accurate assessment of the universe. Why continue to guess when it's not necessary? Faith in God and science naturally belong together. <\/p>
<\/p>
Science can fulfill the measure of her creation, but to do so, she must discover God and then humbly bow before Him. Surely, there is no shame in this! Humility and faith in God enable light and knowledge to be sent down from the heavens and bestowed upon man. This is the spark that brings invention to industry; the source of an expanded vision for mathematics and physics; the ideas to improve medicine, government services, and the use of natural resources; the help we need to find many more fossils or relics in the earth; and a foundation of knowledge to help us better understand the earth\u2019s history and the purpose of its creation. It also provides the context we need to better understand our solar system, our galaxy, and all things big and small in the universe. <\/p>
<\/p>
This increased knowledge is the birthright of science if she will refocus her lens on what truly matters. The everyday things of today's world are also important and can still be pursued in regular order. But we should seek after the simple and important truths of man's existence first.<\/p>","image_name":"B5_Ch3_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Faith in God: Simple Reasoning","summary_id_org":"192","rand_no":"326573778","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"192"}],"5":[{"summary_id":"193","book":"5","chapter":"5","caption":"Evidence That Counters Atheism is All Around Us","image_caption":"Feeling the Spirit of God<\/br>in sacrament meeting","image_caption2":"","start_context":"To overcome the logic","end_context":"completely upside down.","page_no":"738","page_content":"","image_name":"5_3_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Establishing Scientific Fact Through Credible Witnesses","summary_id_org":"193","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"5","image_over":"1","item_no":"193"},{"summary_id":"194","book":"5","chapter":"5","caption":"Miracles Are Commonplace in the World","image_caption":"God performs miracles among<\/br>all peoples of faith","image_caption2":"","start_context":"So yes, we are very much","end_context":"light of the gospel is present.","page_no":"738","page_content":"
So yes, we are very much aware of these things and understand how one would be justified in looking upon the testimonies of some in the world with a skeptical eye.<\/p>
<\/p>
Nevertheless, the vast majority of the people of the earth instinctively believe in God in one form or another. And the great body of evidence among the humble and sincere God-fearing masses is that miracles and faith-supporting events do happen and, in fact, happen in fantastic numbers every day. Within the worldwide membership of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for example, these things happen in the millions every day. But as members of the Church, we also realize that God performs miracles and diverse manifestations of the Spirit among all peoples of the earth, rewarding righteousness, humility, and faith even when only the lesser light of the gospel is present.<\/p>","image_name":"5_3_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Establishing Scientific Fact Through Credible Witnesses","summary_id_org":"194","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"5","image_over":"2","item_no":"194"},{"summary_id":"195","book":"5","chapter":"5","caption":"The Miracle of 1776","image_caption":"The Founding Fathers of America<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"And what about the great miracles of","end_context":"or of non-Christian religions.","page_no":"740","page_content":"
And what about the great miracles of human history? The masterpiece of civilization\u2014the founding of an inspired nation by God in 1776? The founding of a much-improved nation in 1865? The amazing discovery of a whole hemisphere by man in the year 1492? The dramatic collapse of communism in Eastern Europe in 1989, which hopefully ended the debate as to whether a free society\u2013\u2013founded on the Judeo-Christian principles of Western civilization\u2013\u2013was morally equivalent to a closed, captive society? On that particular point, we should also note here that, in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries at least, these closed societies have been generally totalitarian regimes built on the principles of atheism or of non-Christian religions.<\/p>","image_name":"5_3_004.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Establishing Scientific Fact Through Credible Witnesses","summary_id_org":"195","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"5","image_over":"3","item_no":"195"}],"6":[{"summary_id":"196","book":"5","chapter":"6","caption":"Does Life End With the Grave?","image_caption":"A university professor<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Does any man or woman on earth","end_context":"most important question of all.","page_no":"741","page_content":"
Does any man or woman on earth believe in their heart that life ends with the grave? <\/p>
<\/p>
The truth is, science knows very little about the universe, but even less about the possible existence of a soul in man. Science generally looks backward in time in its research, but what can it tell us about the future? For surely, what is in store for us after this life is the most important question of all.<\/p>","image_name":"5_6_001_1707744607.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Eternal Justice For All","summary_id_org":"196","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"6","image_over":"1","item_no":"196"},{"summary_id":"197","book":"5","chapter":"6","caption":"Atheism Provides no Moral Framework for Civilization","image_caption":"Without God, there is no justice applied to either good or bad works<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"What is the final outcome for","end_context":"from any other planet, living or dead, in the galaxy.","page_no":"741","page_content":"
What is the final outcome for mankind if atheism is true? If we carry this theory out to its logical conclusion, it would deny true justice and mercy to all men, women, and children, and to all creatures large and small who have ever walked the earth, for there would be no eternal rewards for those who do good and no punishments for those who do evil. <\/p>
<\/p>
The theories of mainstream science provide no moral framework for civilization and offer no provision to take care of those who have suffered cruelty at the hands of others. Maybe the scientist believes that man\u2019s justice is adequate? Oh my, please no. One cringes at the thought. If these philosophies of man are to be believed, how unfair and lacking in purpose all of our lives would be! There would be no true justice or mercy, and no basis for right and wrong. The grave is the end. A man lives, and a man dies; there is no purpose in his existence, and no purpose, ultimately, in the civilization he creates. Planet Earth, therefore, is no different from any other planet, living or dead, in the galaxy.<\/p>","image_name":"B5_Ch6_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Eternal Justice For All","summary_id_org":"197","rand_no":"674541345","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"197"},{"summary_id":"198","book":"5","chapter":"6","caption":"The Universe Has a Purpose; Life Has a Purpose","image_caption":"Life has a purpose<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"We certainly acknowledge that","end_context":"purpose. Man has a purpose.","page_no":"742","page_content":"
We certainly acknowledge that organized religion is responsible for its share of evil and misery in the world. Evil is evil regardless of who is responsible. But it should be noted that atheists and atheist regimes have plenty of blood on their hands as well, including a starring role in the great genocides of the 20th century. But there is nothing so terrible in the universe as the inherent suggestion by science that life on earth has no meaning, that there is no life after death, and that there is no justice in the end for the acts of men, good and evil, committed in this life.<\/p>
<\/p>
Man's presence here on earth is not an accident of nature. <\/p>
<\/p>
The universe has a purpose. Life has a purpose. Man has a purpose.<\/p>","image_name":"B5_Ch6_3.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Eternal Justice For All","summary_id_org":"198","rand_no":"533325901","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"198"}],"8":[{"summary_id":"199","book":"5","chapter":"8","caption":"The Ways of God That We Don't Yet Fully Understand","image_caption":"Tour of National Dinosaur Museum<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"A knowledge of the great dinosaurs","end_context":"and that of the earth.","page_no":"746","page_content":"
A knowledge of the great dinosaurs of ancient times has added much to our human existence in modern times. These immense creatures cause us to reflect upon time, our own mortality, and the history of the earth. They represent a part of the veil, the ways of God we don\u2019t yet fully understand; and, as an ancient class of beings, they stand behind the curtain that separates us from a perfect knowledge of our own preexistence and that of the earth.<\/p>","image_name":"5_3_011.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"3","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"The Beauty of Created Things is Self-Evident","summary_id_org":"199","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"8","image_over":"3","item_no":"199"},{"summary_id":"200","book":"5","chapter":"8","caption":"The Main Production Run of the Earth's Design","image_caption":"<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"What are the acceptable norms","end_context":"with modern animal and plant species.","page_no":"747","page_content":"
What are the acceptable norms in science of a testing period for a creation of a world like ours? In other words, how much time is allowed for a world creator\/designer\/engineer to watch as species of animals develop and interact with each other, and watch as early human prototypes adapt and settle in to the environment over time? Laying aside the fact that time itself may not even be relevant to a creator of a world like ours, are four billion years acceptable for such a testing period? In that case, modern man of the last six thousand years would seem to be the main production run of the earth's original design, along with modern animal and plant species.<\/p>","image_name":"","type":"X","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"Y","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"The Beauty of Created Things is Self-Evident","summary_id_org":"200","rand_no":"","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"200"},{"summary_id":"201","book":"5","chapter":"8","caption":"The Beauty of Created Things is Self-Evident","image_caption":"The plan of salvation for<\/br>mankind is glorious","image_caption2":"","start_context":"In conclusion, we might simply say","end_context":"we hold to be self-evident.","page_no":"749","page_content":"
In conclusion, we might simply say this: The earth is beautiful; the beasts of the field, the birds in the sky, and the fish of the sea are all beautiful; and most assuredly, man, woman, and child\u2014the family\u2014are beautiful. This is plainly visible to all, and there is no scientific evidence to the contrary. The beauty of created things and our ability to enjoy them we hold to be self-evident.<\/p>","image_name":"B5_Ch8_3.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"The Beauty of Created Things is Self-Evident","summary_id_org":"201","rand_no":"1256051928","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"201"}],"9":[{"summary_id":"202","book":"5","chapter":"9","caption":"The Book of Mormon Teaches the Spirit of 1776","image_caption":"Why did it take so long to find<\/br>the other half of the world?","image_caption2":"","start_context":"And we might ask this question:","end_context":"existed for centuries in the world.","page_no":"750","page_content":"
And we might ask this question: Why did it take so long to find the other half of the earth? What does that tell you about the state of man\u2019s knowledge only five to six hundred years ago, and where the men and women of science stand today as they try to understand the universe? And what does that tell you about those who reject the Book of Mormon and the great story of America, liberty, and Jesus Christ it contains? <\/p>
<\/p>
The Bible does not tell this story. Secular history books also struggle to tell this story in a powerful way. The position taken by most in the Christian community is that God is limited by what He has commanded to be written and to come forth to us in the Bible. He is limited how? He is limited by whom? And, for that matter, might we ask again here as we asked before: Who is the Lord\u2019s chosen representative of mainstream Christianity today that we can go to for a definitive answer? The answer to all of these questions helps one to understand why 1820 was needed, and why the Book of Mormon needed to come forth in spite of the fact that the Bible had already existed for centuries in the world.<\/p>","image_name":"5_3_013.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Physical Evidence of God: The Book of Mormon","summary_id_org":"202","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"9","image_over":"1","item_no":"202"},{"summary_id":"203","book":"5","chapter":"9","caption":"The Book of Mormon is Physical Evidence of God","image_caption":"The Book of Mormon<\/br>came to us suddenly","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The Book of Mormon, and its presence","end_context":"always true to their testimonies.","page_no":"751","page_content":"
The Book of Mormon, and its presence here on earth in modern times, is physical evidence of God and His purposes on earth. As believers in God, we are asked by science to look at what man has dug up from the ground in the last few centuries and to perhaps reconsider our faith. We, in turn, as Latter-day Saints, ask men and women of the world to look at what was dug up from the ground in 1827, and what was later published for all to see in 1830. We ask all interested parties to look at what was established first by one man, Joseph Smith, along with three other witnesses beside him, and then corroborated further by eight more witnesses\u2014the count of all these men together, twelve, being exactly the same number that often comprises a full jury in a court of law. These were men of sound mind and good character, including such honest and well-regarded persons as Joseph Smith, Sr. and Hyrum Smith, the father and brother of Joseph. Whatever weaknesses in life they had as human beings, they were always true to their testimonies.<\/p>","image_name":"B5_Ch9_2.jpg","type":"BE","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"","img_page":"","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Physical Evidence of God: The Book of Mormon","summary_id_org":"203","rand_no":"1811481749","bk_over":"","ch_over":"","image_over":"","item_no":"203"},{"summary_id":"204","book":"5","chapter":"9","caption":"Why Are the Golden Plates Not Available to Us Today?","image_caption":"Twelve first-person witnesses<\/br>of a major artifact","image_caption2":"","start_context":"The fact that the plates used","end_context":"Western and Eastern Hemispheres.","page_no":"751","page_content":"
The fact that the plates used to translate the Book of Mormon were removed from the earth afterward by the Lord, rather than left behind as a permanent historical artifact in a museum or otherwise, is not unlike the circumstances of Jesus Christ Himself. After His death and resurrection, Jesus appeared to a select number of people, including to His disciples, but then made the intentional decision not to appear and show himself to all the people of Israel, and to all the people of the world, even though he could have easily done so. Why? Christians know the answer. So that we as sons and daughters of God can follow His example in life and learn to walk by faith. Having the resurrected Christ walk endlessly throughout all nations of the earth day after day, year after year, and century after century, providing a tangible, direct testimony of His miraculous rise from the dead, would have been a great sign for everyone to more easily believe in Him, both then and now. But in so doing, He would have undercut the primary purpose of man being on earth in the first place, that of having the heavens covered by a veil and of the people born to this earth learning faith in God. Like the New Testament, the Book of Mormon follows this same pattern of leaving behind witnesses rather than the more obvious evidence of the plates themselves, witnesses who can then teach the message of the restoration of the gospel to all people of the world through the Holy Ghost.<\/p>
<\/p>
So, we have twelve first-person witnesses of a major historical artifact\u2014a missing link that connects the history of the Western and Eastern Hemispheres.<\/p>","image_name":"5_3_014.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Physical Evidence of God: The Book of Mormon","summary_id_org":"204","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"9","image_over":"2","item_no":"204"}],"10":[{"summary_id":"205","book":"5","chapter":"10","caption":"The Final Harvest of Man's Life","image_caption":"Leaves change color and<\/br>fall to the ground","image_caption2":"","start_context":"And of course, there is the","end_context":"the afterlife gradually increases.","page_no":"752","page_content":"","image_name":"5_3_015.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Time","summary_id_org":"205","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"10","image_over":"1","item_no":"205"},{"summary_id":"206","book":"5","chapter":"10","caption":"Kneeling Before God in Humble Supplication","image_caption":"Like the Savior, a man bows his<\/br>head in humble supplication","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Prayer is much like other forms","end_context":"clear, powerful, and unmistakable.","page_no":"753","page_content":"
Prayer is much like other forms of research, except that it is accomplished within the confines of one\u2019s own soul. Prayer requires repeated attempts; a man must try, and then try again\u2014waiting, wondering, hoping, and believing until the answer comes. He does this by bowing his head, falling to his knees, and clasping his hands. And outside the daily research of his prayers, he continually follows his conscience, striving to do what\u2019s right to the best of his knowledge and ability.<\/p>
<\/p>
At birth, he was given a spark of goodness, a spark of humanity, something he can draw upon at any time in his life to recognize the difference between right and wrong, and between good and evil. He should allow himself to be led towards that which is good like it were a bright light off at a distance; for surely, there is no equivalence between truth and error (the scientist knows at least this much), nor between good and evil. He seeks after truth while still trying hard each day to treat each man, woman, or child he meets with love and respect, like he himself would like to be treated\u2013\u2013the golden rule of humanity. <\/p>
<\/p>
Then, at a moment in time, something will happen. It might be a moment when he is alone. It might be a moment when he is amidst a crowd of people and time suddenly stops. Or it might be a moment when his mind is at rest\u2014as he naps, sleeps, or quietly ponders. But in any case, what he will experience is an interruption, a sudden awakening of his mind and soul. It may seem to him like a surge of electricity passing through his nervous system\u2013\u2013something gentle in nature, but something that, nonetheless, startles him with a shock, stirring his senses. This is the Spirit of God. It may manifest itself to him in any one of a multitude of ways, but most likely it will come in the form of a still, small voice spoken directly to his spirit. But the voice he hears inside his mind and bosom, while still and small, will nonetheless be clear, powerful, and unmistakable.<\/p>","image_name":"5_3_016.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"Time","summary_id_org":"206","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"10","image_over":"2","item_no":"206"}],"11":[{"summary_id":"207","book":"5","chapter":"11","caption":"The Greatest Day Ever","image_caption":"A bright light billows out from<\/br>the center of the sky","image_caption2":"","start_context":"THIS IS A GOOD TIME","end_context":"table for both animal and man.","page_no":"756","page_content":"
\"THIS IS A GOOD TIME TO REPENT!\"<\/p>
<\/p>
The thought of many in the crowd filling the streets outside one of several downtown shopping centers. All were in amazement; a special day was at hand. Thick, dark clouds still menaced from above, but of greater interest now was an unusually bright light billowing out from the center of the sky. <\/p>
<\/p>
A large sports stadium, still intact, dominated the nearby skyline. On a Sunday afternoon like this, there might have been an exciting sports contest to attend. A resident of the city might have also visited one of the many specialty shops along the boulevards to search out things of interest. It was, to many, a day for attending a festival, an art exhibit, or any number of other special events going on. All cities and countries of the world have their own unique beauty and historical legacies to enjoy, so there are always interesting things to do for fun and relaxation on the weekends. And the same holds true for the suburbs and the many small villages and towns. It was a day for playing ball in the street, working in the yard, going grocery shopping, enjoying a movie at the local theater, attending church, or spending time with friends and family at home.<\/p>
<\/p>
Overall on this day, the world was a good place. While evil permeated the globe, perhaps more than at any other time in its history, it was also true that most people of the earth lived according to that wonderful spark of goodness given to them by their creator, often yielding to feelings of love and compassion towards their fellow man. And, of these large populations of honorable people, most were poor and humble before God. Making do with very little, and patiently enduring hardships, they often found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. They were good. <\/p>
<\/p>
The most beautiful of all creations, however, were the little children. Filling the world with their innocence, their eyes amazed at everything they saw each day, they were the essence of good and the most celestial of all the bodies of nature. Innocent and beautiful as well, the wonderful animals and tiny creatures of God also lived upon the earth. Great in both number and variety, they provided companionship for man and fulfilled the measure of their creation. And underneath all, the wondrous and bountiful earth itself, a footstool and meal table for both animal and man.<\/p>","image_name":"5_4_001.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"The Greatest Day Ever","summary_id_org":"207","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"11","image_over":"1","item_no":"207"},{"summary_id":"208","book":"5","chapter":"11","caption":"A Final Testimony to the World","image_caption":"The glory of Jesus Christ<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"A powerful voice had","end_context":"in the midst of the light. ","page_no":"757","page_content":"
A powerful voice had been heard during the turbulence, and it was a commanding voice, assuredly. Echoing throughout the streets, all could understand it in their own language. The voice penetrated hearts and minds almost with a shock; innermost feelings and emotions were caught by surprise. This was the final Sunday School lesson for humanity. <\/p>
<\/p>
Eclipsing the sun with its unusual brightness, the light above was a marvel to see. The rays of light brought comfort, overcoming even the warm and comforting sun. But this great event was not actually a surprise. It was something expected, something inevitable\u2013\u2013something for which the designated time in the history of the earth had come. <\/p>
<\/p>
A final testimony was spoken to the world\u2013\u2013Jesus Christ lives! Delivered from above with a penetrating voice, it came with thunderings, lightnings, and earthquakes. A celestial being seen in the midst of the light.<\/p>","image_name":"5_4_002.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"2","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"The Greatest Day Ever","summary_id_org":"208","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"11","image_over":"2","item_no":"208"}],"12":[{"summary_id":"209","book":"5","chapter":"12","caption":"The Church Fulfills the Measure of its Creation","image_caption":"The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints<\/br>","image_caption2":"","start_context":"Like all of the other celestial","end_context":"Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.","page_no":"759","page_content":"
Like all of the other celestial things on earth at the close of this millennium, the Church had fulfilled the measure of its creation. It had been, as described accurately by its name, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.<\/p>","image_name":"5_4_003.jpg","type":"SC","over_image_name":"","over_type":"","override":"Y","img_page":"1","continue_prior":"","hide_qm":"","add_qme":"","skip":"","verses":"","subchapter_no":"0","book_name":"Truth Management","chapter_title":"A Wonderful Church","summary_id_org":"209","rand_no":"","bk_over":"5","ch_over":"12","image_over":"1","item_no":"209"}]}}