Pearl of Great Prince:
Since this first chapter is about Moses' experience, I'm going to assume that the God of the Old Testament that is made reference to, here, is none other than Jesus Christ, (Jehovah).
What is meant about "the glory of God" was upon Moses? Moses could not have borne the presence of God without some kind of transfiguration happening. Jesus in His glory would have been too "Holy"?
Referenced names of the Lord, here, are: Lord God Almighty, "Endless"/eternal. "Without beginning of days or end of years", endless/Eternal".
The word "mountain" in verse 1 of Chapter 1 is symbolic as well as perhaps literally: a mountain that is visited by the Savior would be "a Holy Place". When we visit the temple, do we think about the fact that Jesus, the Savior, "God", has walked there? The temple is a Holy Place. Our homes should be a place of refuge and "holiness", also.
Verse 2 of Chapter 1 PGP: Moses saw God "face to face". God has a body! God spoke to Moses! The "glory" of God: Moses was transfigured so that He could bear the presence of the Savior. [I'm starting to repeat myself].
God (v. 3) "spoke" to Moses, and identified Himself. "Behold" the Lord said: Look! I will show thee the workmanship of mine hands... The Savior Has a Body! He created the heavens and the Earth. His works are without end and His words will never cease.
That's all for now, four astonishing and revelatory verses, this morning of February 1, 2020.
My brain is Grand Central Station, a veritable beehive of activity. Ideas are easy, the imagination fertile. Filtering the truth: now, that's a challenge.
Saturday, February 01, 2020
Friday, January 10, 2020
Friday, January 03, 2020
I am not a bird person but who can help being a fan?!!
http://nemesisbird.com/bird-science/florida-field-season-highlights/
It is January 3rd, 2020, and I am sitting here with my door open to catch the breeze and enjoy some lovely weather. There was, for a while, a veritable clamor of birds who were busy reporting to each other of either the fact that I had opened the door, or else a possible "stranger-danger" alert in progress!
These were hawks of some variation; they have flown to some other task, now. But when they are "here" you will know it. CAW-Caw, Squawk!
It is January 3rd, 2020, and I am sitting here with my door open to catch the breeze and enjoy some lovely weather. There was, for a while, a veritable clamor of birds who were busy reporting to each other of either the fact that I had opened the door, or else a possible "stranger-danger" alert in progress!
These were hawks of some variation; they have flown to some other task, now. But when they are "here" you will know it. CAW-Caw, Squawk!
Friday, November 22, 2019
What you can learn from a Census (1930)
At the top of every census page (well, this isn't always a "given"), you should find the state, the county, and the township, (or some other form of a geographical description, for example, a precinct #).
I am utilizing the 1930 Census, today, for Lauderdale County, Alabama; the township is "Florence". The Enumeration District is 37-15, Ward 2. It is "supervisor district #1"; the date may be at that top of the page, also. If not, you might utilize the date from the page before or after (better than "no date at all")!
Where can I learn more about the place called Lauderdale County?
Use Wikipedia for a quick location hint or for more information, access Maps.google.com.
Where can I find images of the census? Almost any large genealogical database will have some census images: FamilySearch.org, Ancestry.com, and MyHeritage.com are some examples.
The family unit for page #2A of the census that I'm looking at today is the WEATHERLY family. The date that this census information was gathered is 3 April 1930. Always make a habit of viewing the page(s) before and after to see if you think any of their relatives were living nearby ("Nearby" being a very long distance or it could mean "next door")!
Obie Lee Weatherly is the head of the household. "H". In 1930, a question that the enumerator asked was "is this home owned or rented"? In this case, the answer is "R" for rented. Mr. Weatherly's rent is $50.00 or if he owns his home, that value of that property would be listed. "Do you have a radio set"? was also asked.
Other questions: Do you live on a farm? In this instance, the answer is "no". Obie Lee is a male, he is "white", age 44, and married. He was age 23 at the time of his first marriage. He is not attending school presently. And he can read and write. He was born in Georgia; his father was born in Alabama, and his mother was born in Georgia.
Hint: You might take a picture or save the image of the census so you can refresh your memory, later. A lot of genealogists will use a form, (print from ancestry.com or familysearch.org), specifically loaded with the census questions for that particular census year. Or perhaps you have downloaded a template for the 1930 Census; you can even make your own with Excel or some other spreadsheet program. For templates, check out NARA.gov.
I am utilizing the 1930 Census, today, for Lauderdale County, Alabama; the township is "Florence". The Enumeration District is 37-15, Ward 2. It is "supervisor district #1"; the date may be at that top of the page, also. If not, you might utilize the date from the page before or after (better than "no date at all")!
Where can I learn more about the place called Lauderdale County?
Use Wikipedia for a quick location hint or for more information, access Maps.google.com.Where can I find images of the census? Almost any large genealogical database will have some census images: FamilySearch.org, Ancestry.com, and MyHeritage.com are some examples.
The family unit for page #2A of the census that I'm looking at today is the WEATHERLY family. The date that this census information was gathered is 3 April 1930. Always make a habit of viewing the page(s) before and after to see if you think any of their relatives were living nearby ("Nearby" being a very long distance or it could mean "next door")!
Obie Lee Weatherly is the head of the household. "H". In 1930, a question that the enumerator asked was "is this home owned or rented"? In this case, the answer is "R" for rented. Mr. Weatherly's rent is $50.00 or if he owns his home, that value of that property would be listed. "Do you have a radio set"? was also asked.
Other questions: Do you live on a farm? In this instance, the answer is "no". Obie Lee is a male, he is "white", age 44, and married. He was age 23 at the time of his first marriage. He is not attending school presently. And he can read and write. He was born in Georgia; his father was born in Alabama, and his mother was born in Georgia.
Hint: You might take a picture or save the image of the census so you can refresh your memory, later. A lot of genealogists will use a form, (print from ancestry.com or familysearch.org), specifically loaded with the census questions for that particular census year. Or perhaps you have downloaded a template for the 1930 Census; you can even make your own with Excel or some other spreadsheet program. For templates, check out NARA.gov.
Saturday, November 09, 2019
A Prayer for myself and others
![]() |
| We Can All Do Something to Serve |
Anyway, this mother shared with me the challenges that she and her family had been experiencing as they have watched the awful struggles of her grown daughter who has 3 daughters of her own. I have to hope and pray that their load continues to be lightened by the many angels who have been helpful so far: the doctors, the medical folks (nurses, etc.) and the practitioners, aides, etc. at the local rehab where the daughter is residing currently.
The other bit of info that kind of hit me, somewhat: This same daughter also has leukemia and has been treated by my very own cancer doctors. How blessed we are, in this day and age, to be able to have our lives lengthened by the amazing progress of science and treatment...even my own battles with Non-Hodgkins Disease. Someone told me recently that they knew someone with that ailment just five or six years ago and that person didn't live very long. I was first diagnosed in 2005!
I am of the belief that all good things come from God, our Heavenly Father. We have the opportunity and privilege of performing very tiny miracles each and every day, thanks to our Savior Jesus Christ. We are His Hands. Maybe we won't be the scientist that discovers a cure for some awful disease, but we can and should lighten the burdens that are borne by those we come into contact with. In whatever capacity, with whatever talents or gifts we my have access to.
I'm so wrapped up in my own little world, my own complaints and challenges. I needed that reminder today that "go and do something, today" is possible for most of us to perform even if we only make someone's load lighter in some very small way!
Lyrics:
1. Have I done any good in the world today?
Have I helped anyone in need?
Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?
If not, I have failed indeed.
Has anyone's burden been lighter today
Because I was willing to share?
Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way?
When they needed my help was I there?
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Other Folks Have Favorite Book of Mormon Scriptures...And Me?
I'm looking at other people's favorite scriptures and see how it relates to me or raises questions or gives me a kernel that I can enlarge upon.
Do you want to partake of the fruit of the tree? The tree and the fruit represent God's love for us. What will you have to give up (sacrifice) in order to stay on the path to the "precious" fruit of the tree? How long is the journey and what will be your guide? Why or How does "the rod of iron" or the "Iron Rod" symbolize safety? Read more about the properties of iron HERE.
Could the Rod of Iron symbolize God's commandments, His Holy Word, the promptings of the Holy Ghost, Revelation? What are all the little and big things that keep us on track to return to our Heavenly Father? How much does He love us? How much do we love Him?
- My Top 25 Book of Mormon Scriptures : This is authored by "Matheson". The "mother" site can be found here.
- The first scripture on his list is 1 Nephi Chapter 8. We can nickname this verse, "White Fruit" or whatever will stick with you. This is in reference to the dream/vision that Lehi had. He was invited to take a journey, in his dream, by a man dressed in a white robe. Finally, he arrives and partakes of the fruit of the tree.
- What do you associate the color "white" with? White is bright, like the sun. White sheets are still among a favorite covering for a bed. They are clean, freshly washed and perhaps hung on a clothesline and they smell clean. In the scriptures, "white" is associated with purity. Unblemished. Without sin.
- In this vision, Lehi is comforted because it is revealed to him that the families of Nephi and Sam, his sons, (or many of their descendants) would be saved (TG Salvation).
- Thought: To be saved, you must choose and stay on the Covenant Path. Hold to the rod that leads you to the "tree" and the precious fruit of the tree. Make and keep covenants (promises) with God. There are many sites that will enhance your study of "the Covenant Path". Here is one such reference.
Do you want to partake of the fruit of the tree? The tree and the fruit represent God's love for us. What will you have to give up (sacrifice) in order to stay on the path to the "precious" fruit of the tree? How long is the journey and what will be your guide? Why or How does "the rod of iron" or the "Iron Rod" symbolize safety? Read more about the properties of iron HERE.
Could the Rod of Iron symbolize God's commandments, His Holy Word, the promptings of the Holy Ghost, Revelation? What are all the little and big things that keep us on track to return to our Heavenly Father? How much does He love us? How much do we love Him?
![]() | |
| My grandson, Caden. |
Tuesday, October 01, 2019
A study of my Winters relatives in Arkansas in 1880
Cole Township Page 65; ED = 180
Enumerated
5th and 6th day of July1880
Sebastian
County, Arkansas
Page
is stamped “608”
Line
1: Dwelling 554, Family #554
Richard
H. Winters Age 30 Farmer Born in Mississippi, Father Born in
Tennessee, Mother Born in South Carolina
Mattie
A. Age 28 Born in Alabama Father born in Georgia as was her
mother
William
M. Age 10 Born in Alabama
Ida Age
7 Born in Alabama
Alexander Age
6 Born in Alabama
Margarett
A. Age 2 Born in Arkansas
Line
7: Dwelling 555, Family #555
Lewis
Winters Age 35 Born
Mississippi: Father in Tenn.; Mother in S. Carolina
Mary
J. Winters Age 32 Born in
Arkansas; father in South Carolina, Mother born in Alabama
Cintha
E. Winters Age 11 Born
Mississippi
Jessee
F. Winters Age 10 Born
Alabama
Mary
L. E. Winters Age 7 Born in Alabama
Jullie
(?) S. Winters (F) Age 4 Born
Alabama
Albert
C. Winters Age 2 Born
Alabama
Martha J. Winters Age 3/12 Born
in Feb. 1880 Born in Alabama
Both Richard and Lewis Winters
are living in Cole Township in Sebastian County, Arkansas for the
1880 Census. Little Cintha Winters is named after her grandmother, I
suspect. I think of the two boys (men), Richard has been there
longer than Lewis, as he has a daughter who was born in Arkansas, who
is age 2. Lewis has a daughter who is just 3 months old who was born
in Alabama. Both of these brothers are farmers.
____________________________________________________
Saturday, September 07, 2019
Benefits in Attending Stake Conference (Two Sessions)
My Perspective: Highlights of Stake Conference
I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Twice a year, I have the opportunity of attending Stake Conference. Normally, there is a Saturday night Session for the general membership, preceded by a Priesthood Meeting attended by the male members of the church. Then, on Sunday, there is another meeting for everyone.
I was able to attend both sessions; each time, I felt inspired by the speakers. There was a good mix of both male and female and in addition, there was a Spanish speaking sister at the Sunday session. There is usually at least one youth speaker; on Sunday we heard from both a young man and a young woman.
A really enjoyable feature of these conferences is that other congregations from different parts (geographical) of the Stake attend. Although there isn't a specific or particularly formal meet and greet set apart, you can make a point of coming early to the conference or staying afterwards to greet old friends and occasionally, far-flung relatives.
I enjoyed seeing a former Stake President, Brother Hill, who had moved from Crestview, Florida to Marianna. I also spotted a former Bishop of our Ward, Doyle Reeves and his wife, Janet. I had only to look to the end of my row to recognize a not too distant cousin, Connie Dukes, who lives in or around Crestview and in her spare time, volunteers at the Baker Block Museum. There isn't a lot of time for socializing, but it is just refreshing to realize that others you have known and cared about in the past, are still able and desirous of driving the distance to attend this meeting.
Now, to the meat of the matter, the speakers and the substance of their talks:
Saturday, 17 August, 2019: The first speaker was Emily Curtis, a member of my Fort Walton Beach ward. She is the Stake Primary Presidency and her topic was helping our children (for those who still have young families or children at home), develop their testimonies. Sister Curtis admitted to falling short of the image for a perfect and wholly prepared mom.
Was what she had to offer, sufficient for achieving this goal? How might we achieve the project of strengthening our children's testimony? She told the story of the bread and fishes that wasn't nearly enough to feed the 5000 in attendance to hear the Savior speak. And yet, for Christ, it wasn't a problem; he had the power of miracle making. So, success on the home front comes when we offer whatever we have and trust the Lord to make it sufficient.
Emily reminded us that building a firm foundation in our homes is achieved one brick at a time. The gospel can be shared in casual conversation as a natural part of our lives. A pure expression of His love for us leads to unity in the family circle. Emily Parks spoke next and continued the theme of making Christ a central part of our everyday lives. He is the foundation upon which we build.
We can renew our focus by attending Sacrament meeting and partaking of the bread and water. To partake of the Sacrament reminds us that Christ was the perfect and only one that could render the Sacrifice necessary to atone for our sins. The concept of ministering to others is realized when we love those we minister to, mourn with them, etc.
Increase the reach of your light by following in the footsteps of Christ. How bright does our light shine?
There was a musical performance at this time as a sister in the Stake sang Nearer, My God to thee. Beautiful!
President Allred spoke next; our Stake is part of the Alabama, Birmingham Mission. He testified that the Gospel changes lives. His wife spoke also. How has our membership in the church affecting my life and the lives of others. Be an example first of the Good Shepherd. Reach out a loving arm to others. There are nine stakes in this mission, 56 wards and 24 Branches. 80 units in all. This mission has 231 missionaries. Two of the stakes (Pensacola and Fort Walton) from Florida are attached to this mission.
In your performance as a Christian, are you holding something back or are you giving your all?
A most enjoyable speaker, President Kimball (of the Stake Presidency), is a "Georgia Boy". He referred to Mosiah 2:30, talked about a basketball story at the MTC and stated that Stake Conference is where Christ would have us be at this very moment. Our biggest need as a people is to "Wake UP"! See 2 Nephi 28:21; don't just think "all is well"/complacency. Elder Maxwell talked about levels of concentration/or consecration.
President Kimball also talked about the Alma 5 Test. verse 14--spirituality, works of righteousness, path to ? righteousness, song of redeeming love. THE LORD REQUIRES OUR HEART. Are we committed to the theme that His will is our will? Do we have personal revelation? do we sGeek it? When we pray we talk to God, When we read the scriptures, He talks to us. How and Why do we need to "wake up"? Do a sel?f inventory. Silence the Noise of the world, seek revelation and act on it once you've received it.
How do we receive revelation? First get rid of worldly distractions. The Noise. (Cell phones)? Don't be prideful--it's not all about me). Contention. The cares of the world. Unworthiness--if this is unresolved get to the Bishop. When we wake up there will be the Light of Jesus in our eyes.
Now, I have not addressed the "BIG" thing about Stake Conference and attendance at this twice a year meeting. It is the Spirit. You go to feel the spirit of each and every speaker, of the hymns and the performance of the special musical numbers, of the participators of those instances. You go to feel the spirit of the Saints/members/and those who have been called to serve (voluntarily) in various stake positions. You go to add your spirit to that body. To testify by virtue of your being there, that you have faith in this faith. And is the "Spirit", the Holy Ghost, in attendance also? Yes! Otherwise, we couldn't feel the spirit of each other and of the Lord. The Holy Ghost is our conduit. This is the way we feel, listen, and learn what it is that our Heavenly Father would have us know, would have us feel. This is the way that the Savior teaches us, touches us with His Spirit. We can read, study, pray, ponder and feel that Spirit, but being congregated as we are at a conference, adds an additional element with other human beings...we are feeling the Spirit together, a single and sole experience that is essential--it is why the invitation goes out to the group, to the congregation. Because, we are not alone. We stand in support of one another, in love of one another, as well as in "sync" with the Lord.
I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Twice a year, I have the opportunity of attending Stake Conference. Normally, there is a Saturday night Session for the general membership, preceded by a Priesthood Meeting attended by the male members of the church. Then, on Sunday, there is another meeting for everyone.
I was able to attend both sessions; each time, I felt inspired by the speakers. There was a good mix of both male and female and in addition, there was a Spanish speaking sister at the Sunday session. There is usually at least one youth speaker; on Sunday we heard from both a young man and a young woman.
A really enjoyable feature of these conferences is that other congregations from different parts (geographical) of the Stake attend. Although there isn't a specific or particularly formal meet and greet set apart, you can make a point of coming early to the conference or staying afterwards to greet old friends and occasionally, far-flung relatives.
I enjoyed seeing a former Stake President, Brother Hill, who had moved from Crestview, Florida to Marianna. I also spotted a former Bishop of our Ward, Doyle Reeves and his wife, Janet. I had only to look to the end of my row to recognize a not too distant cousin, Connie Dukes, who lives in or around Crestview and in her spare time, volunteers at the Baker Block Museum. There isn't a lot of time for socializing, but it is just refreshing to realize that others you have known and cared about in the past, are still able and desirous of driving the distance to attend this meeting.
Now, to the meat of the matter, the speakers and the substance of their talks:
Saturday, 17 August, 2019: The first speaker was Emily Curtis, a member of my Fort Walton Beach ward. She is the Stake Primary Presidency and her topic was helping our children (for those who still have young families or children at home), develop their testimonies. Sister Curtis admitted to falling short of the image for a perfect and wholly prepared mom.
Was what she had to offer, sufficient for achieving this goal? How might we achieve the project of strengthening our children's testimony? She told the story of the bread and fishes that wasn't nearly enough to feed the 5000 in attendance to hear the Savior speak. And yet, for Christ, it wasn't a problem; he had the power of miracle making. So, success on the home front comes when we offer whatever we have and trust the Lord to make it sufficient.
Emily reminded us that building a firm foundation in our homes is achieved one brick at a time. The gospel can be shared in casual conversation as a natural part of our lives. A pure expression of His love for us leads to unity in the family circle. Emily Parks spoke next and continued the theme of making Christ a central part of our everyday lives. He is the foundation upon which we build.
We can renew our focus by attending Sacrament meeting and partaking of the bread and water. To partake of the Sacrament reminds us that Christ was the perfect and only one that could render the Sacrifice necessary to atone for our sins. The concept of ministering to others is realized when we love those we minister to, mourn with them, etc.
Increase the reach of your light by following in the footsteps of Christ. How bright does our light shine?
There was a musical performance at this time as a sister in the Stake sang Nearer, My God to thee. Beautiful!
President Allred spoke next; our Stake is part of the Alabama, Birmingham Mission. He testified that the Gospel changes lives. His wife spoke also. How has our membership in the church affecting my life and the lives of others. Be an example first of the Good Shepherd. Reach out a loving arm to others. There are nine stakes in this mission, 56 wards and 24 Branches. 80 units in all. This mission has 231 missionaries. Two of the stakes (Pensacola and Fort Walton) from Florida are attached to this mission.
In your performance as a Christian, are you holding something back or are you giving your all?
A most enjoyable speaker, President Kimball (of the Stake Presidency), is a "Georgia Boy". He referred to Mosiah 2:30, talked about a basketball story at the MTC and stated that Stake Conference is where Christ would have us be at this very moment. Our biggest need as a people is to "Wake UP"! See 2 Nephi 28:21; don't just think "all is well"/complacency. Elder Maxwell talked about levels of concentration/or consecration.
President Kimball also talked about the Alma 5 Test. verse 14--spirituality, works of righteousness, path to ? righteousness, song of redeeming love. THE LORD REQUIRES OUR HEART. Are we committed to the theme that His will is our will? Do we have personal revelation? do we sGeek it? When we pray we talk to God, When we read the scriptures, He talks to us. How and Why do we need to "wake up"? Do a sel?f inventory. Silence the Noise of the world, seek revelation and act on it once you've received it.
How do we receive revelation? First get rid of worldly distractions. The Noise. (Cell phones)? Don't be prideful--it's not all about me). Contention. The cares of the world. Unworthiness--if this is unresolved get to the Bishop. When we wake up there will be the Light of Jesus in our eyes.
Now, I have not addressed the "BIG" thing about Stake Conference and attendance at this twice a year meeting. It is the Spirit. You go to feel the spirit of each and every speaker, of the hymns and the performance of the special musical numbers, of the participators of those instances. You go to feel the spirit of the Saints/members/and those who have been called to serve (voluntarily) in various stake positions. You go to add your spirit to that body. To testify by virtue of your being there, that you have faith in this faith. And is the "Spirit", the Holy Ghost, in attendance also? Yes! Otherwise, we couldn't feel the spirit of each other and of the Lord. The Holy Ghost is our conduit. This is the way we feel, listen, and learn what it is that our Heavenly Father would have us know, would have us feel. This is the way that the Savior teaches us, touches us with His Spirit. We can read, study, pray, ponder and feel that Spirit, but being congregated as we are at a conference, adds an additional element with other human beings...we are feeling the Spirit together, a single and sole experience that is essential--it is why the invitation goes out to the group, to the congregation. Because, we are not alone. We stand in support of one another, in love of one another, as well as in "sync" with the Lord.
Watch Life, Liberty & Levin
https://video.foxnews.com/v/6064916193001/#sp=show-clips
It is clear that wrongs have been committed. Is there a way to redress those errors? To hold someone accountable for the farce that was the "Special Investigation" presided over by Mueller?
It is clear that wrongs have been committed. Is there a way to redress those errors? To hold someone accountable for the farce that was the "Special Investigation" presided over by Mueller?
Monday, August 19, 2019
Poem for today
Check out this poetic thought and remember that summer has yet a little while before the Autumn leaves make an appearance.
"And hate the bright
stillness of the noon
without wind, without motion.
the only other living thing
a hawk, hungry for prey, suspended
in the blinding, sunlit blue.
And yet how gentle it seems to someone
raised in a landscape short of rain—
the skyline of a hill broken by no more
trees than one can count, the grass,
the empty sky, the wish for water."
- Dana Gioia, California Hills in August
without wind, without motion.
the only other living thing
a hawk, hungry for prey, suspended
in the blinding, sunlit blue.
And yet how gentle it seems to someone
raised in a landscape short of rain—
the skyline of a hill broken by no more
trees than one can count, the grass,
the empty sky, the wish for water."
- Dana Gioia, California Hills in August
My granddaughter's smile is like a summer day. Broad, warm, proud, and full of potential. And maybe, BOLD, also. I love you, Kaylee!
Tuesday, July 30, 2019
A reach for poetic beauty.
Pain in my left leg
And in other places
Defines where I go
What I do
How I spend time.
For the beauty of the earth:
Can I bathe the aches of my body in nature?
Can I turn my attention to other directions?
Can I tune out the aches and discomfort
That wash me in mud and obscure my view of truth and loveliness?
And in other places
Defines where I go
What I do
How I spend time.
For the beauty of the earth:
Can I bathe the aches of my body in nature?
Can I turn my attention to other directions?
Can I tune out the aches and discomfort
That wash me in mud and obscure my view of truth and loveliness?
Thursday, July 25, 2019
Too Much Free Time?
As a woman who might have too much time on her hands, (I live alone in a "village" filled with other folks in a similar situation), I have often wondered if I'm using the time I do have in a way that is productive, charitable, educational, or enriching.
![]() | |||
| Myself and my son, Richard at the beach a few years ago. |
For the first time in many years, I can read as much as I want to. I have experienced another pleasure in the last 3 or 4 years, also! I subscribe to two "movie" channels and I start watching a series that is meant to be viewed over a period of days; only, I binge, instead and will occasionally watch all the episodes in a singe evening!
The television is on from morning till night unless I am taking a nap, going out of my apartment, or reading. It is background noise! Creates a fantasy that I'm not living alone.
I need to simplify, but throwing out or giving away belongings is a real chore! Love for you, my family or friends, to email me with suggestions or ideas. If you are in my area at all, please stop by for a quick visit!
Tuesday, July 23, 2019
Who is Mulek and Why Do I Care?
Mulek, a Book of Mormon leader, was the son of Zedekiah and escaped the sacking of Jerusalem in about 587 B.C. He travelled with others to a place in the Western Hemisphere which became known as the land of Mulek (Helaman 6:10). Later on this region was named for Zarahemla, who was a descendant of Mulek (Mosiah 25:2). In the past, Bible students have assumed that Nebuchadnezzar executed all of Zedekiah's sons, an observation unsupported by ancient evidence and refuted by the Book of Mormon account of Mulek's survival.
In Mulek's descendants, the Nephites discovered an additional witness concerning the destruction of Jerusalem. Remember, this was why Lehi was directed by the Lord to get out of that area while the getting-out was good! The Mulekites were thrilled to discover or would it be discovered?---Anyway, they were glad to find the Nephites or be found by them...because the Nephites had records. Their own language and traditions had been distorted in the absence of historical documents. They lived thenceforth among the Nephites and enjoyed a separate-but-equal status and ultimately outnumbered the descendants of Nephi!
For God, there are no "lost" peoples. Name variations, "lost tribes", etc. are known to a loving Heavenly Father. For additional information, refer to the Scriptures of the Church, selections from the Encyclopedia of Mormonism, edited by Daniel H. Ludlow, published in 1992. You can also do a search at the Church website, churchofjesuschrist.org.
How would your life be different without the Bible? Without the Book of Mormon? Without historical documents?
I highly recommend reading the new-er publication on the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It can be found both at the church website and is also a downloadable "app" in the Gospel Library. I love having the capability of having these texts on my phone. If I am early for an appointment or if the doctor is running behind, I will often use that "dead time" for reading my scriptures and/or for reading "Saints".
In Mulek's descendants, the Nephites discovered an additional witness concerning the destruction of Jerusalem. Remember, this was why Lehi was directed by the Lord to get out of that area while the getting-out was good! The Mulekites were thrilled to discover or would it be discovered?---Anyway, they were glad to find the Nephites or be found by them...because the Nephites had records. Their own language and traditions had been distorted in the absence of historical documents. They lived thenceforth among the Nephites and enjoyed a separate-but-equal status and ultimately outnumbered the descendants of Nephi!
For God, there are no "lost" peoples. Name variations, "lost tribes", etc. are known to a loving Heavenly Father. For additional information, refer to the Scriptures of the Church, selections from the Encyclopedia of Mormonism, edited by Daniel H. Ludlow, published in 1992. You can also do a search at the Church website, churchofjesuschrist.org.
How would your life be different without the Bible? Without the Book of Mormon? Without historical documents?
I highly recommend reading the new-er publication on the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It can be found both at the church website and is also a downloadable "app" in the Gospel Library. I love having the capability of having these texts on my phone. If I am early for an appointment or if the doctor is running behind, I will often use that "dead time" for reading my scriptures and/or for reading "Saints".
Monday, July 22, 2019
Section 25 of the Doctrine and Covenants and Personal Revelation
This revelation was given in Harmony, Pennsylvania, in July 1830, three months after the organization of the Church. It was first printed in the Book of Commandments in 1833 as Chapter 26. The revelation is addressed to Emma Smith, wife of the Prophet Joseph Smith. In the earlierst version, Emma Smith is addressed as "my daughter in Zion". Joseph Smith later expanded this verse to add, "All those who receive my Gospel are sons and daughters in my kingdom."
Can you imagine having a revelation directed to you? Yesterday, in Sunday School, we talked about revelation, yes, even personal revelation! As children of our Heavenly Father, we are entitled to receive revelation to guide us and comfort us. "When we speak to Heavenly Father, we do so by means of prayer. When he speaks to us, he does so by means of personal revelation." So spoke L. Lionel Kendrick
in a 1997 devotional. I find this statement wonderfully simple and direct. Brother Kendrick goes on to explain,
"This two-way divine communication is critically important to our success, to our sense of well-being, to our feelings of security, and to our spiritual salvation. It is imperative that we understand the process of receiving personal revelation."
Questions to ponder: Should I seek personal revelation? How will I receive personal revelation or identify it when it comes? What should our response be to personal revelation? How do we prepare to receive revelation? It is humbling to me to note that the Savior intercedes on our behalf with Heavenly Father. We direct our prayers to the Father by virtue of our understanding that the answers, the consideration, the authority is at that throne. Who answers our prayers for guidance? "
It is by means of the Holy Ghost that personal revelations are received. It is the Spirit that communicates with our spirit in receiving revelation. The Savior promised, “God shall give unto you knowledge by his Holy Spirit” (D&C 121:26).
The talk given by Brother Kendrick is very enlightening as to how and why and in what manner personal revelation can be obtained. I can help prepare myself for the guidance I so sorely need by way of sincere prayer, thoughtful consideration, and a humble, teachable attitude. Is there ever a time when the answers to our prayers are answered by a lack of revelation? What other scriptures or talks can you find on this topic? Here are the "top 25 quotes" by Brother Kendrick.
Can you imagine having a revelation directed to you? Yesterday, in Sunday School, we talked about revelation, yes, even personal revelation! As children of our Heavenly Father, we are entitled to receive revelation to guide us and comfort us. "When we speak to Heavenly Father, we do so by means of prayer. When he speaks to us, he does so by means of personal revelation." So spoke L. Lionel Kendrick
in a 1997 devotional. I find this statement wonderfully simple and direct. Brother Kendrick goes on to explain,
"This two-way divine communication is critically important to our success, to our sense of well-being, to our feelings of security, and to our spiritual salvation. It is imperative that we understand the process of receiving personal revelation."
Questions to ponder: Should I seek personal revelation? How will I receive personal revelation or identify it when it comes? What should our response be to personal revelation? How do we prepare to receive revelation? It is humbling to me to note that the Savior intercedes on our behalf with Heavenly Father. We direct our prayers to the Father by virtue of our understanding that the answers, the consideration, the authority is at that throne. Who answers our prayers for guidance? "
It is by means of the Holy Ghost that personal revelations are received. It is the Spirit that communicates with our spirit in receiving revelation. The Savior promised, “God shall give unto you knowledge by his Holy Spirit” (D&C 121:26).
The talk given by Brother Kendrick is very enlightening as to how and why and in what manner personal revelation can be obtained. I can help prepare myself for the guidance I so sorely need by way of sincere prayer, thoughtful consideration, and a humble, teachable attitude. Is there ever a time when the answers to our prayers are answered by a lack of revelation? What other scriptures or talks can you find on this topic? Here are the "top 25 quotes" by Brother Kendrick.
Saturday, July 13, 2019
A glimpse into the life of my mom and dad?
My dad, Ben Hill, was a letter-writer. The following copy of a letter he wrote, (he knew what carbon paper was for), has allowed me a glimpse into his thoughts and doings on the 19th of August, 1984.
Let me set the stage a bit. I can't get too specific without revealing matters that might be private and/or sensitive or cause discomfort to some.
However, the letter is addressed to my son, Richard, who was filling a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
"Dear Elder, my dad writes, "we have been out of church since 12:30 p.m."--(this is on a Sunday afternoon that he is describing), "we watched Jimmy Connors lose three dismal sets of tennis to ignoble John McEnroe. Meanwhile, time has gone by until 2:19 p.m. Your grandmother, [Opal], wasn't too talkative until I mentioned how I thanked Brother and Sister Unitt for their [very] spiritual testimony. It was at that point, that your grandmother told me very matter-of-factually, that she wanted to be baptized and had spoken to the Bishop about it. We both had a good cry! ...we both thanked Heavenly Father for being so good to both of us...I still have trouble taking it all in...
"Your grandmother said that she wanted me to know first. Then, she is going over to Ben and Becky's to give them the news, then to Margaret's and Sarah's and finally to her Aunt Hazel's.
"Your mom (moi) has been down in spirit; I know this is going to spruce her up, considerably.
"Okaloosa County has been having a lot of political spirit for the past couple of months; there are so many signs posted that the ground hogs and gophers are making a detour up through Alabama for fear they'll have the sharp end driven through their "noggins"!
"Give your companion our love and baptize, baptize, baptize. Then, get your breath and baptize some more!
"Grant Adams and John Barrow are coming to home teach us on Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. Opal is going to tell Grant that his productive seeds have sprouted! And I have promised President Elroy Stapleton that I will let him know about the baptism; he wants to come down from Crestview for the baptism of your grandmother.
"We love you very much, Richard! Bye for now, Grandpa and Grandma Hill. P. S. We enjoyed the pictures; I'm enclosing a clipping of the baseball game."
Let me set the stage a bit. I can't get too specific without revealing matters that might be private and/or sensitive or cause discomfort to some.
However, the letter is addressed to my son, Richard, who was filling a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
"Dear Elder, my dad writes, "we have been out of church since 12:30 p.m."--(this is on a Sunday afternoon that he is describing), "we watched Jimmy Connors lose three dismal sets of tennis to ignoble John McEnroe. Meanwhile, time has gone by until 2:19 p.m. Your grandmother, [Opal], wasn't too talkative until I mentioned how I thanked Brother and Sister Unitt for their [very] spiritual testimony. It was at that point, that your grandmother told me very matter-of-factually, that she wanted to be baptized and had spoken to the Bishop about it. We both had a good cry! ...we both thanked Heavenly Father for being so good to both of us...I still have trouble taking it all in...
"Your grandmother said that she wanted me to know first. Then, she is going over to Ben and Becky's to give them the news, then to Margaret's and Sarah's and finally to her Aunt Hazel's.
"Your mom (moi) has been down in spirit; I know this is going to spruce her up, considerably.
"Okaloosa County has been having a lot of political spirit for the past couple of months; there are so many signs posted that the ground hogs and gophers are making a detour up through Alabama for fear they'll have the sharp end driven through their "noggins"!
"Give your companion our love and baptize, baptize, baptize. Then, get your breath and baptize some more!
"Grant Adams and John Barrow are coming to home teach us on Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. Opal is going to tell Grant that his productive seeds have sprouted! And I have promised President Elroy Stapleton that I will let him know about the baptism; he wants to come down from Crestview for the baptism of your grandmother.
"We love you very much, Richard! Bye for now, Grandpa and Grandma Hill. P. S. We enjoyed the pictures; I'm enclosing a clipping of the baseball game."
Friday, July 12, 2019
Church Books and More: for Sale or Loan
I have a ton of church and other books that must find new homes due to my inability to store and/or display them. (I live in a small one-bedroom apartment!)
I'm going to offer these books for sale but if you would just like to borrow one, I can go with that, also! I can hand deliver these books if we both happen to be going to the same place at the same time. Or, I can mail you the book (you pay the postage).
More to come...
I'm going to offer these books for sale but if you would just like to borrow one, I can go with that, also! I can hand deliver these books if we both happen to be going to the same place at the same time. Or, I can mail you the book (you pay the postage).
More to come...
Saturday, June 08, 2019
Did you say "Glenn Beck"?!! Don't get me started!
You may or may not like Glenn Beck. However, his story about how he came to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is very interesting and touching. I have total respect for folks who humble themselves and put their lives in the hands of the Savior!
Read his story, yourself.
Read his story, yourself.
Friday, June 07, 2019
Florida Heritage Historical Markers
Web sites like this one can help us appreciate the historical markers more fully. Thanks to whoever gathered the information. Those names, the persons mentioned at this site, ring a bell with me, historically if not genealogically!
Friday, May 31, 2019
Okaloosa History: Reflections
Memorial Day, May 29th, 1949: American Legion dedicates a marker to war veterans and dead near the site of the present memorial at the Crestview courthouse.
May 30th, 1997: Crestview establishes a relationship under Sister Cities International with Noirmoutier en l'ile, France.
On June 1st, 1916: The Crestview Town Council establishes a community speed limit of 10 mph!
June 4th, 1897: Post Office opens in Svea (closes June 25, 1904); reopened 1905-1910.
June 4th, 1938: First public performance of the Okaloosa School Band, forerunner of the Crestview Big Red Machine High School Band.
May 30th, 1997: Crestview establishes a relationship under Sister Cities International with Noirmoutier en l'ile, France.
On June 1st, 1916: The Crestview Town Council establishes a community speed limit of 10 mph!
June 4th, 1897: Post Office opens in Svea (closes June 25, 1904); reopened 1905-1910.
June 4th, 1938: First public performance of the Okaloosa School Band, forerunner of the Crestview Big Red Machine High School Band.
Wednesday, May 22, 2019
It is well with my soul...
Background of this song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqrya00iY34
The performances: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bfo6pF2psxs
Don't listen or watch if you don't want to shed tears!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqrya00iY34
The performances: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bfo6pF2psxs
Don't listen or watch if you don't want to shed tears!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)












