Lincoln's Insights

Cyrus: God's Anointed?

2011-02-02T21:22:00.000-08:00

Here is a short essay I've written for my Hebrew Bible class. I had originally decided to write on Isaiah 53, but during one of our classes, I brought up the fact that Cyrus, King of Persia, freed the Jews from Babylonian bondage, in part, to fulfill Isaiah's prophecy (Isaiah 44 and 45) which names Cyrus by name. My amazing Professor, whom I respect, wasn't convinced since the modern belief is that chapters 40-66 of Isaiah were written after King Cyrus, therefore not written by Isaiah. I decided I wanted to look further into this question and was amazed at my findings. This essay is a concise result of those findings. The word limit was 1300, (around 4 pages), so I couldn't say everything I wanted, but it was a decent start.

I hope you enjoy it!

In Isaiah 44:28 - 45:1, a very specific prophecy was made about Cyrus, King of Persia. In these verses, he was named twice as anointed of God, destined to deliver Israel from captivity, and reserved to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple.

I will argue that aside from literally fulfilling this prophecy, by freeing the Jews from Babylonian bondage, Cyrus was used as a type and shadow of a far greater deliverance… the deliverance of all humankind from the bondage of sin by a coming Messiah. I will argue that Cyrus himself was a messiah, and like Christ, he fulfilled the words of Isaiah. I will present this study to you using a typological method from the perspective of a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS).

The reader should be aware that most LDS scholars hold the belief that the entire Book of Isaiah was authored by Isaiah himself. The reason this belief is held, is because the Book of Mormon, a canonical record in the LDS faith tradition, quotes from parts of second Isaiah and attributes those writings to that prophet. More importantly, though, is that the original record from which the Book of Mormon quoted Isaiah dates back to 600 B.C.E., over 100 years after Isaiah and approximately 60 years before Cyrus delivered Israel. This is unusual, since the mainstream belief is that second and third Isaiah (chapters 40-66) were written some 200 or more years after the first 39 chapters, and therefore not written by Isaiah. The reaction of most scholars to a book of the Bible containing a specific prediction, is to call it an afterthought rather than a genuine prophecy.

Surely, it was written long after the fact, by someone who wanted the world to believe it was an authentic Isaianic prophecy. The modern claim is that Isaiah could not have foreseen such a specific event, nor could he have foretold the very name of the person who would fulfill the prophecy. In other words, Isaiah could not have been an authentic prophet. Obviously, the arguments both for and against this perspective cannot be sufficiently addressed in this paper. I will proceed with the assumption that chapters 40-66 were authored by Isaiah.

The first verse of chapter 45 reads in part, “Thus says the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus”. The fact that Cyrus was called the Lord’s “anointed” has bothered many Bible scholars. In fact, Cyrus is the only Gentile king who as been called God’s “anointed”. The word “anointed” here in the Hebrew text is מָשִׁיחַ (māšîaḥ), which is where we get the English ‘messiah’. The Septuagint translates it as Χριστός (khristós), which is where we get the English ‘Christ’. So was Cyrus the Lord’s Messiah? Was he His Christ? Given the theologically sacred nature of these titles, you can see why Isaiah’s word choice might be troubling to some. At the expense of sounding irreverent, I submit that Cyrus was indeed, in the literal senses of these words, a messiah, or rather, a type of Christ.

A type is a prophetic symbol, usually representing Jesus, and can be found throughout the Hebrew Bible. When I call Cyrus a type, I do not mean to say that he was like Jesus in every respect. He was merely a simplified and almost tangible representation of a far greater deliverer. I also find it curious that if these verses were not written by Isaiah, but by persons who witnessed Israel’s deliverance by the hand of Cyrus, why would they have chosen a word like ‘anointed’ (מָשִׁיחַ)? They witnessed for themselves that he wasn’t the Messiah, and there is no evidence to support the idea that one of the Lord’s prophets literally anointed Cyrus in a position of political power as Samuel did Saul and David. Isaiah’s prophetic word choice was to use Cyrus as a messianic symbol, thus pointing his audience toward the coming of the great Messiah.

Although this word study is helpful in looking at this passage in a new light, there is still more typology to mention. Cyrus was the King of Persia. He held a great deal of power and because of this, he was the only person capable of delivering Israel from Babylonian bondage at that time. Christ was called the King of Israel and the King of the Jews. His kingdom and power was not an earthly one, but a divine one. His divine sonship made him the only one capable of redeeming humankind from the bondage of sin. Not only did both fulfill their divine callings, but if they hadn’t, no one else could have.

Josephus, a Jewish historian, quoted an edict from Cyrus which says that YHWH appointed him to be king of the earth, and that “indeed he foretold my name by the prophets, and that I should build him a house at Jerusalem…” Josephus claims that after reading the prophecies of Isaiah, Cyrus admired the power of the Israelite God, and had an earnest desire to fulfill what was written. Similarly, on one occasion, Christ went to read in the synagogue at Nazareth. The book of the prophet Esaias (Isaiah) was given to him, and he read these words, “The spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me… to let the oppressed go free”. (Luke 4:18, Isaiah 61:1) Jesus, claiming to be this anointed one, said, “Today this scripture has been fulfilled”. (Luke 4:21) This is significant in a number of ways. First, the word ‘anointed’ here comes from the same word found in Isaiah 45:1, as explained above. Second, as mentioned in Isaiah 44:28, Christ, like Cyrus, was also to free the oppressed. Third, both Cyrus and Christ read the words of Isaiah and used them to announce and justify their ministries. Each had a desire to not only fulfill the words of Isaiah but, more importantly, also the will of God.

The parallels here are stark. If Cyrus wasn’t a type of Christ, the coincidences are quite remarkable, to say the least. Most readers will have read this paper with an opinion already formed, whether that opinion is about the validity of the LDS faith and their canon, the unity of the Book of Isaiah, or the idea that Cyrus was a type of Christ. In any case it is difficult to persuade someone of something they are already convinced about. But I don’t believe that is always the point of scholarship, at least not for me. I believe the goal is to present someone with a new context and perspective to approach the text. It is a privilege to hear one another’s readings and to see what is guiding them. I believe what I have presented here should be of interest to critics in many different fields.

Identity in Isaiah 40

2010-10-14T09:54:00.000-07:00

This was a short assignment we were given in my Hebrew Bible class. We were asked to exegete (which is a fancy "theological" term for interpret) Isaiah 40 with the method or lens of 'Identity'. Here's what I came up with:

Asking me to exegete Isaiah is much like asking my 3 year old son to solve a complex calculus problem. Nevertheless, I will do my best to show how Isaiah uses stunning imagery to shape the identity of humankind, specifically in verses 12-31 of chapter 40.

Isaiah starts by setting forth the identity of Jehovah, illustrating his power and greatness. He illuminates that God, as creator, knows the earth so well that he knows the measurements of the heavens, waters, dust, and mountains. (verse 12) Because Jehovah’s power and omnipotence are “everlasting”, no one counsels him and no one instructs or teaches him. (verses 13-14; see also verse 28) He is never weary! (verse 29) For me I don’t know if there are any verses in all of scripture that can portray preeminence and power with such splendid imagery quite like these verses, especially verse 12.

Isaiah then sets forth the identity of humankind. The nations are as insignificant as “a drop of a bucket, and are counted as the small dust of the balance”. (verse 15) “All nations before him are counted as... less than nothing”. (verse 17)

By contrasting the almighty attributes of Jehovah with the insignificant identity of humankind, Isaiah is able to make man’s nothingness even more evident and show Jehovah’s supreme power as everlasting and eternal.

What is so significant in these verses to me is not merely the idea that God is great and man is nothing, but that Jehovah is so great that mankind, through Him, can overcome their nothingness. In one breath he says that all nations are “less than nothing”, and in another, he invites man to “lift up [their] eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things”. (verses 17, 26) To those that “wait upon” him he will “renew their strength”. (verse 31) “He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength”. (verse 29)

What I see here is an inspired Prophet, who uses these identities, not to discourage mankind, but to humble mankind. None is like God! Therefore why would man worship anything other than God, even a likeness of him? The rich man melts a graven image and spreads it over with gold, while the poor man prepares a graven image out of wood. (verses 19-20) But as the great Jehovah asks, is it these graven images that created all things and “[stretched] out the heavens as a curtain”? (verse 22) “To whom then will ye liken me, or shall I be equal?”. (verse 25) In other words, these idols are not who created all things, and therefore no item, artifact, instrument or tool can be fashioned to replace he who did create all things.

Then comes that great invitation mentioned above, “Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things”. (verse 26 italics added)

Because man’s identity is indeed nothingness, there is only one way for him to overcome that dilemma and that is to submit to Jehovah and the power he has to save. Isaiah ends chapter 40 elegantly: “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint”. (verse 31)

How Heavenly Father Feels

2009-11-17T21:03:00.000-08:00

Elder Boyd K. Packer in General Conference said: "I have studied much in the scriptures and have taught from them. I have read much from what the prophets and apostles have spoken. They have had a profound influence upon me as a man and as a father. But most of what I know about how our Father in Heaven really feels about us, His children, I have learned from the way I feel about my wife and my children and their children. This I have learned at home. I have learned it from my parents and from my wife's parents, from my beloved wife and from my children, and can therefore testify of a loving Heavenly Father and of a redeeming Lord." (General Conference Oct. 1998)

I can't think of a more profound way of putting it! Think about who is saying this? There aren't many men living who have studied more in the scriptures or taught more from them. He rubs shoulders with the most elect men on earth every day of his life. He leads a most remarkable life! Yet, one of the most profound truths Christ's gospel has to offer, namely the immensity of our Father in Heaven's love for us, his children, cannot be taught from the scriptures or by the prophets as profoundly as it is taught from our own homes.

Is this not what it's all about anyway? Are our families not our most precious possessions? Is not this life of loving, learning, hurting, weeping, embracing, and overcoming, alongside our families, nothing more than a magnificent dress-rehearsal preparing us for the big stage? Are we not learning to become as God is and to love as God does?

What a wonderful plan of true happiness we have laid before us by an all-loving, ever-loving Father in Heaven!

Let the Lower Lights Be Burning

2009-03-22T19:44:00.000-07:00

Recently we had a Ward Conference. It was difficult, as it always is, to get a lot out of the meetings... thanks to our wonderful yet extremely active children. There were two things that were mentioned, though, that caught my attention. I'd like to mention one of them now.

On my mission I fell in love with the Hymn, Brightly Beams Our Father's Mercy. (Hymns 335) It's a men's choir song and I loved singing it in parts with some of the other Elders. I remember singing it with three other Elders (Hansen, Shiffler, Reneer) at a zone conference once and I was deeply touched by the spirit. Besides loving the tune and feeling the Spirit on that particular occasion, I can't say my connection with the song had anything to do with the words. I honestly didn't understand their full significance or meaning. Admittedly, they almost seemed a little silly. Nevertheless, I continued to love the song. In fact, years after my mission, I remember singing it with my good friend for his scouts at a camp out devotional.

At this ward conference a member of our Stake Presidency went over the words with us. Here they are:

Brightly beams our Father's mercy from his lighthouse evermore, but to us he gives the keeping of the lights along the shore. Let the lower lights be burning; send a gleam across the wave. Some poor fainting, struggling seaman you may rescue, you may save.

Dark the night of sin has settled; loud the angry billows roar. Eager eyes are watching, longing, for the lights along the shore. Let the lower lights be burning; send a gleam across the wave. Some poor fainting, struggling seaman you may rescue, you may save.

Trim your feeble lamp, my brother; some poor sailor, tempest tossed, trying now to make the harbor, in the darkness may be lost. Let the lower lights be burning; send a gleam across the wave. Some poor fainting, struggling seaman you may rescue, you may save.

We talked about God the Father and Jesus Christ as the great lighthouse. President Monson has said this:

"Look for the lighthouse of the Lord. There is no fog so dense, no night so dark, no gale so strong, no mariner so lost but what its beacon light can rescue. It beckons through the storms of life. It calls: This way to safety. This way to home. The lighthouse of the Lord sends forth signals readily recognized and never failing."

Though our Father and Eldest Brother's light and mercy brightly beam from their lighthouse for all to see, it is to us they give the keeping, or responsibility, of the lower lights along the shore. It is these lower lights that can guide some poor fainting, struggling seaman safely to shore.

I looked up the origin of this song. Here's what I found:

This song was written by Philip Bliss. He was a well known Christian songwriter in the 1860's and 70's. He wrote this song as he was traveling with Pastor Dwight L. Moody. Pastor Moody preached a sermon one day and told a story about Cleveland harbor. (I personally didn't realize Cleveland sat on the shore of Lake Erie until I started researching this story.) A portion of Pastor Moody's sermon goes as follows:

"On a dark, stormy night, when the waves rolled like the mountains and not a star was to be seen, a boat was rocking and plunging near the Cleveland harbor. The harbor pilot came aboard the ship to guide it into port." (Just an aside: a harbor pilot is a local, experienced mariner who boards ships to guide them safely through dangerous or congested waters.)

"'Are you sure this is Cleveland?' asked the captain, seeing only one light from the lighthouse.

'Quite sure, sir,' replied the pilot.

'Where are the lower lights?'

'They've gone out, sir.'

'Can you make the harbor?'

'We must, or we will perish, sir.'

"And with a strong hand and a brave heart, the old pilot took control of the wheel of the ship. But alas, in the darkness he missed the channel and, with a crash upon the rocks, the boat was shivered and many a life lost in a watery grave."

Pastor Moody then said: "Brethren, the Master will take care of the great lighthouse. Let us keep the lower lights burning."

That evening, Philip bliss wrote the words to the song he entitled, "Let the Lower Lights Be Burning."

For me, this story illustrated a beautiful and significant meaning to the words of this song. It makes me think of those who have been 'lower lights' in my life; those who have guided me safely to shore. I can think of a handful right now. Then I can't help but wonder if I too am being a wise steward over the responsibility given me to 'send a gleam across the wave?' Doctrine and Covenants 103:9-10 comes to mind where it says: "They were set to be a light unto the world, and to be the saviors of men; And inasmuch as they are not the saviors of men, they are as salt that has lost its savor, and is thenceforth good for nothing but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men;" (italics added) and also these words: "No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light." (Luke 11:33 See also Matt. 5:15, Mark 4:21, and 3 Ne. 12:15)

This tells me that not only do I need to be a better example to my children, family, friends, etc... but I need to be a better missionary by living and sharing the gospel, and also by serving in the temple; performing, vicariously, for others the saving ordinances which they cannot perform for themselves.

I hope this song forever reminds you, as it does me, we truly can become saviors of men or as Obadiah put it, saviors on Mount Zion. (See Obad. 1:21; see also D&C 103:9-10)

Promptings

2008-12-15T20:58:00.000-08:00

It has been so long since my last post. I feel so busy and over-occupied most days that I don't make time to write. It's vitally important for me to keep track of my learning experiences and I need to make it a priority. When I record my thoughts and insights consistently, the spirit whispers to me more often. When I slack off, I often fail to notice some of the most beautiful, yet simple, blessings of all. It's amazing what writing a few thoughts down will do!

So a few weeks ago I was leaving work late. It was a Friday and I was really excited to get home and hang out with my family. I love Fridays! As I was walking out the door, one of my co-workers asked me which way I was headed. I immediately knew what he was really asking. He wanted a ride home but didn't want to come out and say it. (Please note: this individual is a very nice guy. He and I get along just fine. I would simply say we just don't know each other well enough to be super close or connected.) Anyway, I told him which way I was going and he said "Ok. Nevermind." After further inquiry it turned out that he indeed did need a ride home. I wish I could say that I readily and willingly offered to take him home, but instead I told him that I lived in the opposite direction and wished him luck!

I walked out the door and almost immediately got a pit in my stomach!

"What's this? All I want to do is get home to my family. What's more important anyway? Why am I being nudged? After all, if I took him home I would be losing important family time!"

These thoughts kept me walking towards my truck feeling very justified and confident in my choice to move on. Then came another pit, an additional nudge! I was determined to get home and tried, in vain, to ignore the second prompting.

As I approached my truck, the nudges had done their damage. Now all I had were racing thoughts about talks I'd heard and read about ignoring the promptings of the Spirit. So, in one last desperate attempt to push the promptings aside, I decided I would call Anna to get the official stamp of approval... hoping there was some kind of emergency that only I could remedy with my prompt and safe arrival home. As I spoke to Anna and explained the situation honestly, we both felt the spirit very strongly and I knew I needed to give him a ride home.

Well, the rest is history. I went back in, told him to grab his jacket and off we went. Unfortunately for the reader, this story probably seems all too ordinary and uninspiring. But the lesson I learned that day didn't come during the mostly quiet car ride with my co-worker, nor did it come while feeling the spirit on the phone with Anna. The real lesson came right after I dropped this man off. Tears came to my eyes as the spirit testified to me, right there in my truck, that I would be trusted to receive more promptings because I had listened, (eventually), to this seemingly unremarkable one.

Friends

2008-11-05T22:02:00.000-08:00

Today, I'm feeling especially grateful for friends. They come in so many forms: Spouses, children, moms, siblings, in-laws, mission comps, etc... I'm am so blessed to have so much support around me.

My wife is an amazing example to me. She teaches our children, fulfills her callings, supports my ambitions, finds time for dinners and lunches, and about two million other things. On top of that, she makes me laugh and will even indulge me by actually laughing at me once in awhile.

I have the greatest kids in the world. Lincoln has become my greatest little friend. What would I do without his smile and antics? He reminds me that life is simpler and happier than I make it out to be. He appreciates the kid in me and loves me unconditionally.

Shiloh can melt my heart faster than anyone I know. Although she constantly requires attention, it makes it all worth it when she smiles or giggles at me. I'm telling you, when she gives me one of those huge, chubby grins, I'm done!!! Her personality is so cute.

I could mention my brothers and sister, my mom, my in-laws, old friends, new friends, etc... Each one plays an important role in my life and some add a deepness and richness that without them would otherwise feel void and empty.

Thanks to all of you who invest so much time and love and add so much richness to our lives. I know the relationships we form in the 'here and now' last so much longer and reach so much farther beyond the margins and time contraints of this life. I am truly grateful for that knowledge.

Better Man

2008-10-19T21:37:00.001-07:00

I love General Conference. It always seems to come just when I need it. I admit, it can be hard to do 10 hours of church meetings in a matter of two days, but it's some of the best time I ever spend.

I've been thinking a lot about some of the things that were said. I already have a few favorite talks, but there is one thing that has kept coming back to my mind more than anything else. It was a simple but genuine prayer given at the opening of the General Priesthood session. The man offering the invocation, with all the tenderness and sincerity of his heart prayed, "Father, we want to be better men," he continued, "Help us to help the women in our lives feel a greater sense of self-worth..."

Those deep yet unembellished words caused me to engage in some serious self-reflection. Am I really trying to be a better man? Do I live as a Priesthood holder should? Do I cultivate an environment of self-worth for those around me, especially for my wife, daughter, and the other special women in my life?

I am grateful for inspired words and the influence of the spirit of truth which is the spirit of change.

3 Simple Steps

2008-09-28T19:21:00.000-07:00

We had stake Temple night this last week. I love to attend the chapel meetings at the temple. There is just an extra special spirit there.

One of the counselors in the Temple presidency spoke. He expounded on a scripture and related it to our temple worship and our own personal revelation. The Lord gives us these simple steps to follow:

"Therefore, go ye unto your homes, and ponder upon the things which I have said, and ask of the Father, in my name, that ye may understand, and prepare your minds for the morrow, and I come unto you again." (3 Ne. 17:3)

This scripture means so much more to me now. The Lord is telling us that we must:

1) Ponder upon his words. His words are found in the scriptures, in the Ensign, in the temple, through the whisperings of the spirit, and other forms of personal revelation.

2) Pray that you might more fully understand His words. How many times do I settle for simply feeling the spirit, or merely reading the scriptures? Do I take the time and effort to prayfully ask for more enlightenment and understanding? Why did the spirit touch me at that time? What would the Lord have me know? What is it I need to do to improve?

3) Prepare your mind for MORE. We must be prepared and excited for more gospel light and truth. We cannot settle for what limited understanding we now have.

The last words in this passage are encouraging and reassuring when the Lord says, "and I come unto you again." The Lord promises He will not stop there but continue to give us more light as we Ponder, Pray, and Prepare.

PS - Thanks to you who have commented. It's means the world to me to know that you are enjoying this blog. I will try and be more consistent in my updates.

Triumphant

2008-08-24T20:26:00.000-07:00

Last night Anna and I were getting to bed kind of late. We were both lying down nearly asleep when we realized we still needed to read and pray. Anna said, "Tell me or read me a good scripture". (No pressure!) :-) So I opened to Moroni 10, (one of my favorite chapters). I was looking for a specific scripture, but I couldn't find what I was looking for... (I only had my Romanian scriptures handy, which aren't as well marked). So while I was quickly skimming for this scripture, and not finding it, I eventually came to the very last verse. Here's what Moroni said:

"And now I bid unto all, farewell. I soon go to rest in the paradise of God, until my spirit and body shall again reunite, and I am brought forth triumphant through the air, to meet you before the pleasing bar of the great Jehovah, the eternal judge of both quick and dead. Amen." (Moroni 10:34)

The word "triumphant" stuck out to me. I have been pondering a lot about some of the trials each of us are divinely allotted. There are times when I want things to be different than they are. There are certain trials and stumbling blocks I would rather not face. More than anything I would like to say with faith and conviction, as Moroni did, that I will "rest in the paradise of God" and that I will be "brought forth triumphant". It then hit me more than ever before that I cannot be truly "triumphant" if I don't have anything to triumph over! If I attempt to pray away my troubles, I would be, in a very real sense, denying myself the high privilege of conquering this estate. Moroni was not "brought forth triumphant" by having an easy lot. Christ did not "overcome the world" by facing little tribulation. (John 16:33; see also D&C 50:41; D&C 76:107)

Christ even told us, "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) I hope to "be of good cheer" so I too, in a small measure, can be like my Savior and overcome the sacred trials and "thorn[s] in the flesh" the Lord has in store for me. (2 Cor. 12:7)

Personal Inventory

2008-08-04T20:26:00.000-07:00

I often take inventory of my own life. Where am I at? What am I doing to progress and grow? In what ways am I doing better now compared to just a few months ago? What can I do and should I do tomorrow to improve upon today? Unfortunately, I don't always love the honest answers to these soul-searching questions.

I came across this passage the other day and it gave me reason to reflect upon my own discipleship:

"And when [Jesus] was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?
"And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.
"Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.
"And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.
"Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
"And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions." (Mark 10:17-22)

I wonder if I would react as this man did or would I be truly dedicated enough to Christ and His gospel to do the thing I felt least able to do? This man had observed all the commandments from his youth and perhaps was quite pleased with himself, thinking he was ready for the next step. Do we think, as this man apparently did, true discipleship is to simply not kill, steal, commit adultery, etc...? I hope not. I think once we master the "thou shalt not" commandments, (and desire further discipleship), we will be given the "thou shalt" commandments which most likely will be those things we feel least able to perform.

I often think of Nephi's bold statement and covenant with the Lord concerning obedience: "I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded" (1 Ne. 3:7) A promise, so simply stated, yet so valiantly kept! Nephi, too, was asked to do something he thought he would never have to do when he happened upon an intoxicated Laban. (1 Ne. 4:7-18) We know that Nephi "shrank" but nevertheless he "did obey the voice of the Spirit." (1 Ne. 4:10,18) What a contrast!

Now here's the inventory part: Can I follow the various commands and counsels of the Lord no matter how difficult or will I "[go] away grieved" when the counsel is much harder than previously anticipated?

Count Your Blessings

2008-07-27T01:27:00.000-07:00

About two weeks ago I was privileged to give a Priesthood blessing to a woman at my work. I've been reflecting on the trials she has been given in her life and in so doing I have felt so very grateful for all my many blessings but also for the many "thorns" I have been "given"! (See 2 Cor. 12:7)

In explaining this woman's situation I think it's worth noting that she lost a son a few years back just after his mission. She also lost her mother within the last year. And if all that wasn't enough, a few weeks ago, this woman's husband passed away unexpectedly in his sleep.

She had, understandably, been away from work for a couple of weeks and her first few days back were extremely hard! She asked for a blessing and I was honored to give her one. Without going into too many details, I would like to share just a few thoughts.

During the blessing I was deeply moved. I couldn't stop thinking about the perfect love of our Savior! I had this feeling that the Lord gives us trials BECAUSE He loves us, not because He doesn't; and often times those trials are very specific to our individual situations, strengths and needs! I couldn't help but feel that these trials were in some way a part of God's love.

This experience has also caused me to count my many blessings! I have so many good things going for me and unfortunately I don't appreciate those wonderful things quite like I should. It's hard enough for most of us to recognize God's love when things are going great, but it is a true disciple that can see God's flawless and abiding love even through the deepest despair.

The Testimony of Lamoni

2008-07-19T18:18:00.000-07:00

During Sunday school last week I had an interesting experience. Actually, so far I've had really great experiences almost every week here in our new ward. I love the teachers!

We were discussing the sons of Mosiah and their diligence in teaching the gospel to the Lamanites. Most of us are familiar with the story of Ammon and King Lamoni. The King had been so touched by the spirit that he "believed all [Ammon's] words." (Alma 18:40) He was so humbled by this experience that his strength completely failed him and "he fell unto the earth, as if he were dead." (Alma 18:42)

It wasn't until three days later that he arose. He immediately began praising God saying, "blessed be the name of God." (Alma 19:12) He then said something that hasn't ever hit me quite as hard as it did on Sunday. Lamoni testified, "behold, I have seen my Redeemer." (Alma 19:13) After reading this line, our tender-hearted and humble teacher then paused, holding back his obviously profound emotions, and with sincerity and modesty asked, "If any words were to be coveted, would not these be they?"

What a profound and reflective question! Words cannot describe how I long for that same privilege to say, "behold, I have seen my Redeemer!"

I am humbled and grateful for teachers like this. I am so grateful to him for preparing properly for that lesson. By so doing, he was able to follow the guidance of the spirit, which ultimately touched me profoundly. I will never read that passage again without reevaluating my commitment to my Redeemer!

Growth-Promoting Chastisement

2008-07-13T18:43:00.000-07:00

I love reading the different epistles of Chief Captain Moroni. Particularly, I love the correspondence between Moroni and Pahoran. Moroni reprimanded Pahoran severely in one of his epistles. We all know how Pahoran responded: "And now, in your epistle you have censured me, but it mattereth not; I am not angry, but do rejoice in the greatness of your heart." (Alma 61:9) I love the fact that this man, the ruler and chief governor over all the land, was not only unpretentious in his reaction but was also overjoyed at Moroni's patriotism and greatness of heart. Such humility on Pahoran's part!

I have recently read a few noteworthy stories illustrating this brilliant attribute of humbly 'taking it'. One of my favorites is when Parley P. Pratt recalled an occasion when President Brigham Young chastened him and certain others for the governing of the westward migration. President Young wrote two letters of a reproaching nature, even accusing them of insubordination. Elder Pratt wrote of this situation, "I could not realize this at the time, and protested that in my own heart, so far as I was concerned, I had no such motive; that I had been actuated by the purest motives...." Later Elder Pratt was made aware that some of those scolded had motives that weren't as pure as his. He continued to say, "...yet I thank God for this timely chastisement; I profited by it, and it caused me to be more watchful and careful ever after." (Autobiography of Parley Parker Pratt, 341-42.) What fertile ground for retaliation on the guiltless Elder Pratt's part, yet he 'took it' and even more importantly he "profited by it."

These lessons learned from people like Elder Pratt and Pahoran without doubt precipitate serious self-reflection, especially when we know we're more prone to take offense instead of, as Elder Pratt so eloquently put it, "thank[ing] God for this timely chastisement..."; or to go as far as rejoicing, as Pahoran did, in the greatness of our offender's heart.

Follow the Prophet

2008-07-06T21:36:00.000-07:00

I was reading in 2 Kings 5 the other night and was impressed by the blessings that come from following the prophet. A man named Naaman who was at one time a great "captain of the host of the king of Syria." (v. 1) He was also "a mighty man of valour, but he was a leper." (v. 1) Naaman was fortunate enough to seek the help and counsel of the prophet Elisha. So he went and when he stood at the door of the house of the prophet, "Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean." (v. 10)

Naaman's reaction was not pretty. In fact, he was "wroth" (v.11) and "in a rage" (v.12) Naaman was offended that Elisha didn't himself come out to meet him and perform some mighty, earth-shattering miracle. He even murmured at the thought of washing in the Jordan rather than in some better, possibly cleaner waters.

How many of us pray or ask for something but are disappointed when the answer or solution comes in a way we aren't too thrilled about? It's unfortunate to think that we, (in our finite knowledge and intelligence), still question God, (in His infinite wisdom and omniscience), and also doubt His will for us!

Luckily Naaman had some pretty faithful servants that came near and asked, "if the prophet had bid thee do some GREAT thing, wouldest thou not have done it?" (v.13 emphasis added) They then pointed out the ease of Elisha's command and observed it would be unwise to reject this relatively simple counsel. Naaman submitted, washed himself seven times and "he was clean." (v. 14)

Sometimes we make things harder than they need to be. At times we think that if God asked us to we could move mountains, yet we murmur when we get an unglamorous calling in the church. I think we also misunderstand the Lord's timing. Naaman had to wash himself seven times, SEVEN TIMES. Could not the Lord have healed him in just a single washing or no washing at all? At times He will draw things out longer than we think is necessary. I know from very personal experience that the Lord will oft-times stretch me beyond my comfort level and understanding.

Neal A. Maxwell contemplatively asked this question concerning our obedience to the prophets and our submitting to the Lord's timing:
"Is there some spiritual discipline at work that tests our obedience by requiring the tested to go, again and again, till we learn to trust and to follow the prophets fully?"

What a marvelously introspective question that is! I truly believe the answer to that question is a resounding YES!

Samuel and Eli

2008-06-29T19:35:00.000-07:00

I was reading in 1 Samuel 3 the other night. Many of us know the story of young Samuel and Eli the temple priest. Both lay down to sleep and through that night there came a call, 'Samuel.' The boy Samuel, thinking Eli had called him, went to Eli's room to find that Eli had not called him. He went back and lay down and returned not only a second but also a third time. At this third visit, Eli sensing that Samuel was being spoken to by the Lord, said, 'if he call thee...say, Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth.' (v.9)

Now there is much to be learned here. Samuel obeyed the very FIRST time. He also remained diligent and obeyed each subsequent time. So much faith and dedication! Having said that, there is something that caught my attention even more than that.

In the next few verses we read that Samuel received a message, a rather harsh message, concerning his mentor Eli: 'I will perform against Eli all things which I have spoken concerning his house...because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not.'

That next morning Eli asked Samuel to tell him 'the thing that the Lord hath said unto [him].' (v. 17) Can you imagine how scared Samuel must have been to tell Eli what the Lord had said? Verse 15 tells us, 'And Samuel feared to shew Eli the vision.' But despite Samuel's fear he 'told him every whit, and hid nothing from him.' (v. 18) I am impressed by the courage and love this young boy had in telling Eli 'every whit.' But what impresses me even more is Eli's response. Put yourself in Eli's shoes for a moment. He was the temple priest; Samuel was just a kid. Who was Samuel to be counseling Eli and prophesying against him? But listen closely to Eli's response. He said: 'It is the Lord: let him do what seemeth him good.'

Wow! Such humility! Eli could have been puffed up in anger and pride to hear such words, but instead he reacted with meekness and submissiveness. I believe they both loved and cared for each other enough to be ungrudgingly open to receive counsel and correction and, when moved upon by the spirit, even be willing to give it.

W. Somerset Maugham said: "People ask you for criticism, but they only want praise." I hope that's not entirely true for me. I feel I have been blessed with so many deep relationships. I pray I will be open to receive some much needed counsel and correction and to also be loving and courageous enough to give it when moved upon by the spirit.

A Child's Prayer

2008-06-22T19:13:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was teaching our Primary class. It was our last week in the Summerfield Ward and I was a bit melancholy. We had grown attached to our ward, our neighbors, and our callings. Leaving some of those kids was sad for me. I guess I'm always a little apprehensive when it comes to change.

Since Anna was put on bed rest just a few days earlier, she wasn't able to attend! The kids were so sad. I told them that Anna was having some "problems being pregnant". I also told them that this would be our last week teaching them. For the most part they seemed pretty sad, (although I'm sure there were some that were overjoyed)! :-)

At the conclusion of our lesson I asked for a volunteer to say the closing prayer. (Now keep in mind I usually ask for a volunteer but generally end up forcing someone to say it.) Unexpectedly, a young man raised his hand... unusual, but not necessarily unheard of. I was expecting a quick, let's get out of here, type of prayer; but what I got was quite different. This young man thanked Heavenly Father for letting us teach them, he asked that we would be blessed, and he ended his prayer by sincerely asking our Father in Heaven to help "Sister Hale" through her pregnancy.

Needless to say, I was touched. I sometimes think that all too often what I say goes in one ear and out the other. I was humbled. I learned that not only are these children listening to so many things we have to say, but they are also tender, loving, concerned, and thoughtful! I was forever affected by this child's prayer.

"Prayer is the simplest form of speech
That infant lips can try
Prayer, the sublimest strains that reach
The Majesty on high" (Hymns no. 145)

Supreme Service of Christ

2008-06-19T22:13:00.000-07:00

I'm currently reading a book by Neal A. Maxwell called "All These Things Shall Give Thee Experience". I highly recommend it! He is so articulate and powerful. It almost seems irreverent to make an attempt at expounding upon his already compelling words, but I will do my best. He said:

"Jesus did not find pleasure in hanging on the cross; joy came after duty and agony.He went to Gethsemane and Golgotha out of a sense of supreme service, not because it would meet his needs. He fulfilled all things by giving all in that remarkable and special act of service. He descended below all - taking more than all of us put together have taken - before being lifted up.
"But selfish people are forever taking their own temperature , asking themselves, "Am I happy?""

As I have pondered upon that thought for a few days, I have been deeply moved by the "supreme service" of Christ. None of what he remarkably did was for him! It never was, even from the beginning. He, being the only One without stain is the only One who suffered ultimate agony in an act of ultimate love and service. And although this was done in divine love, Christ still "did not find pleasure in hanging on the cross", indeed, His "joy came after duty and agony." To me that is a marvelous insight!

How often am I "checking my own temperature"? How often am I concentrating on my own happiness? I believe I'm learning that much of the joy I seek now will actually come "after duty" and even after some "agony". When those times of agony do come I hope to have the faith to say: "nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done." (Luke 22:42)

The Hand of God

2008-06-03T23:12:00.000-07:00

The Lord, more often then I deserve, blesses me with spiritual experiences and gives me sacred insights into many of the so-called mysteries in my mind. Unfortunately, too many times these insights are taken lightly, not written down, and eventually lost forever! I am attempting to remedy that.

The purpose of this blog is to recognize the hand of God in my daily life. President Eyring in the October 2007 General Conference recalled a time when he heard in his mind these words: “I’m not giving you these experiences for yourself. Write them down.”

I have pondered upon those words time and again and feel the Lord is expressing those same sentiments to me. These experiences are not just for me, but they are also for my family and dear friends. Therefore, I will venture to write down the thoughts of my heart and also some of my experiences in hopes that I might retain these sacred insights and perhaps help ignite or feed some kind of fire in the hearts of my loved ones.

I sincerely hope you will enjoy this blog. I pray it will inspire you and give you a spiritual boost at a time when so much around us is "in commotion". (D&C 45:26, D&C 88:91)