Valiant in the Cause of Christ

My Relief Society lesson was today and I made mental and actual notes of the talks presented in Sacrament meeting. There were so many ways that stand out of how to become VALIANT in the cause of Christ, which was the title of my lesson.

This lesson impacted me personally to make note of what I can do to be more valiant in my life. Temple attendance and dedication to the Lord are what has helped me be aware as the most important factor. Multiply that by obedience to the commandments, service to my family, paying tithes and offerings, as it all blesses me in my life beyond words. My heart is full of gratitude of the blessings I receive in return. I am in awe of the goodness and tender mercies. My membership in this Church mean everything, and brings me closer to my Savior.

Now, I am by no means perfected yet. I have miles to go for that. I am just so grateful for the love Jesus has for me and I stand ALL amazed at that love which sustains me. Everyday I am blessed by the atonement and the promises made of eternal life and the hope to see my parents again and be with them in the presence of God and Jesus Christ. It goes without saying it includes the promise of being with my children and all my posterity and the hope of an eternal companion. I know that II Nephi 9: tells us that the infinite atonement was made possible through Him and he is at the gate when we go from this life to the next.

Joseph and Hyrum Smith's statue at Carthage Jail in Illinois. I acknowledge the martyrdom of Joseph and his brother at Carthage Jail in Illinois, not far from Nauvoo. The lesson powerfully portrayed their Valiance in the Cause of Christ.

If it was not for Joseph Smith and his calling as Prophet of the restoration, where would we be now? I also especially know our beloved prophet, Thomas S. Monson is God's chosen prophet to lead us and guide us through these troubled times today.

President Monson and his counselors, President Henry B. Eyring, Deiter F. Uchtdorf

Sunday, Relief Society, Sacrament Mtg

Today was another wonderful Sabbath day. I went to the temple yesterday afternoon and took a few pictures of the grounds. The spring reconstruction is now completed for both entrances for the brides and grooms to be able to take their wedding party pictures with the least amount of distraction for temple patrons.

Sacrament meeting today was high lighted with Aaron speaking about pioneers and testimony. He gave a great talk, and I am not prejudging either. Several people in the ward complimented his talk and told me it was very well presented. So there, I wasn't being biased.

I also taught Relief Society today; one of the sisters told me it was "McIntire" day. I smiled knowing she meant the ward had a double whammie with Aaron and me teaching or speaking on the same day. It was fine, since I, nor Candice were asked to speak at the same time in sacrament meeting. It appears that this ward only asks one of the spouses at a time to speak instead of both.

The choir also sang "Faith in Every Footstep," and "Come, Come Ye Saints." Somehow we ( the choir) pulled it off even though there were people missing who frequently sing in the choir. I felt a sweet spirit as we sang, and we sounded much better than at practice. We must have had unseen help with singing voices to augment our group.

I went to a fireside in Orem in the evening and enjoyed the speaker, Andy Ehat. He spoke about the Book of Mormon. He had spent many years doing research on the writings of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. He used to live in our ward years ago in our North Orem ward. He remembered me when I went up to shake his hand and greet him afterward. He wanted to know all about my children and what you are all doing. That was very kind of him to be interested enough to ask me to write it down, so when he shared with his wife about seeing me, he would have something to draw from to tell her.

It was a great day, but I didn't get a nap at all and kept on the go ALL day. I went to visit my friend Donaire. I was impressed to share with her D & C 121 and D & C 138. Her comments were, "that is just beautiful," when I read 121, then about President Joseph F. Smith's vision of the redemption of the dead. She loved it.

I was pleased to share that with her and her willingness to listen. She used to visit with the Prophet, Ezra Taft Benson, so she was used to being in the presence of these great leaders. They know who she is, and that she is a true Levite with all its rights and privileges. Each day I spend with her is a treasure and gift from God. I learn something from her every time.