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LIAHONA THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS ■ SEPTEMBER 2002
LIAHONAT H E C H U R C H O F J E S U S C H R I S T O F L A T T E R - D A Y S A I N T S ■ S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 2
LIAHONAT H E C H U R C H O F J E S U S C H R I S T O F L A T T E R - D A Y S A I N T S ■ S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 2
ON THE COVERFront: Light and Truth, by Simon Dewey.Back: “Hear Ye Him,” by Simon Dewey.Both paintings courtesy of Altus Fine Art,American Fork, Utah.
THE FRIEND COVERThe Lord’s Harvest, by Marilee B. Campbell.See “ ‘The Field Is White Already toHarvest,’ ” page 4.
F E A T U R E S2 FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE: PATIENCE, A HEAVENLY VIRTUE
PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON
25 VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE: LOVING LIFELONG LEARNING
32 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES: LOVING AND SUSTAINING OTHERS“I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVES” FRANCISCA CRISTINA VILLAR REY“WHY ARE YOU SO DIFFERENT?” JUANA RIVERO DE GONZÁLEZA LEAP OF FAITH WALFRE RICARDO GARRIDOTHE HOME TEACHERS WHO WOULDN’T QUIT DAVID HEAD
38 PUTTING THE STUDENT INTO ACTION: HOW TO INCREASE PARTICIPATION INLESSONS JONN D. CLAYBAUGH AND AMBER BARLOW DAHL
44 LATTER-DAY PROPHETS SPEAK ABOUT GOSPEL TEACHING
48 USING THE SEPTEMBER 2002 LIAHONA
E S P E C I A L LY F O R Y O U T H9 FACE TO FACE KRISTIE MASUMI KING
10 “HE LOVED THEM UNTO THE END” ELDER JEFFREY R. HOLLAND
14 MY FRIEND AND FELLOW SERVANT: THE EXAMPLE OF LUAN FELIX DA SILVA ELDER CLAUDIO R. M. COSTA
16 “PLAIN, SIMPLE TRUTHS”: YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN APPLY THE SIX B’S
22 MY TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE DAY BRENDA WILLIAMS
26 THE TREASURE OF EL DORADO RICHARD M. ROMNEY AND NESTOR JAVIER PASSE
47 DID YOU KNOW?
T H E F R I E N D2 COME LISTEN TO A PROPHET’S VOICE: OPENING THE WINDOWS OF HEAVEN
PRESIDENT JAMES E. FAUST
4 SHARING TIME: “THE FIELD IS WHITE ALREADY TO HARVEST”VICKI F. MATSUMORI
6 FOR LITTLE FRIENDS: WHAT MISSIONARIES DO
8 SANDY’S MISSIONARY CHART CRAIG E. MOORE
10 FRIEND TO FRIEND: ELDER ATHOS M. AMORIM
12 NEW TESTAMENT STORIES: THE RICH YOUNG MAN;JESUS BRINGS LAZARUS BACK TO LIFE
SEE PAGE 47
SEE PAGE 10
SEE PAGE 2
COMMENT
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September 2002 Vol. 26 No. 9LIAHONA 22989Official international magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
The First Presidency: Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Monson, James E. Faust
Quorum of the Twelve: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry,David B. Haight, Neal A. Maxwell, Russell M. Nelson,Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin,Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland,Henry B. Eyring
Editor: Dennis B. NeuenschwanderAdvisers: J. Kent Jolley, W. Rolfe Kerr, Stephen A. West
Curriculum Department Administrators:Managing Director: Ronald L. KnightonEditorial Director: Richard M. RomneyGraphics Director: Allan R. Loyborg
Editorial Staff:Managing Editor: Marvin K. GardnerAssistant Managing Editor: Jenifer L. GreenwoodAssociate Editor: Roger TerryAssistant Editor: Lisa Ann JacksonEditorial Associate: Susan BarrettPublications Assistant: Collette Nebeker Aune
Design Staff:Magazine Graphics Manager: M. M. KawasakiArt Director: Scott Van KampenSenior Designer: Sharri CookDesigners: Thomas S. Child, Randall J. PixtonProduction Manager: Jane Ann PetersProduction: Reginald J. Christensen, Denise Kirby, Kelli Pratt, Rolland F. Sparks, Kari A. Todd,Claudia E. WarnerDigital Prepress: Jeff Martin
Printing and Distribution:Printing Director: Kay W. BriggsDistribution Director (Subscriptions): Kris T Christensen
For subscriptions and prices outside the United Statesand Canada, contact your local Church distributioncenter or ward or branch leader.
Send manuscripts and queries to Liahona, Floor 24, 50 East North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3223, USA; or e-mail: [email protected]
The Liahona (a Book of Mormon term meaning“compass” or “director”) is published in Albanian,Armenian (East), Bulgarian, Cambodian, Cebuano,Chinese, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English,Estonian, Fijian, Finnish, French, German, Haitian,Hiligaynon, Hungarian, Icelandic, Ilokano, Indonesian,Italian, Japanese, Kiribati, Korean, Latvian, Lithuanian,Malagasy, Marshallese, Mongolian, Norwegian, Polish,Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Samoan, Slovenian,Spanish, Swedish, Tagalog, Tahitian, Tamil, Telugu, Thai,Tongan, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese. (Frequency variesby language.)
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.Printed in the United States of America.
For Readers in the United States and Canada:September 2002 Vol. 26 No. 9. LIAHONA (USPS 311-480) English (ISSN 1080-9554) is published monthly byThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 50 EastNorth Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150. USAsubscription price is $10.00 per year; Canada, $15.50plus applicable taxes. Periodicals Postage Paid at Salt LakeCity, Utah, and at additional mailing offices. Sixty days’notice required for change of address. Include addresslabel from a recent issue; old and new address must beincluded. Send USA and Canadian subscriptions to SaltLake Distribution Center at address below. Subscriptionhelp line: 1-800-537-5971. Credit card orders (Visa,MasterCard, American Express) may be taken by phone.(Canada Poste Information: Publication Agreement#40017431)
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Salt LakeDistribution Center, Church Magazines, PO Box 26368,Salt Lake City, UT 84126-0368.
“DO WHAT IS RIGHT”
At my baptism we sang “Do What IsRight” (Hymns, number 237), and I imme-diately felt that this hymn held meaning forme. Elder Richard G. Scott’s message “DoWhat Is Right” in the March 2001 Liahona(Spanish) also made a great impression onme. Reading the magazine is like taking aminute to refresh myself.
Carlos Aníbal Guilarte,Maracay Ward,Maracay Venezuela Stake
CALLINGS HELP PERFECT US
When I became a member of theChurch, I didn’t know about Church call-ings. To my great surprise, I was called toteach the young men. I didn’t hesitate, inspite of my fear. It was a heavy responsi-bility for me. But through prayer and faith,the young men and I started to learn divineprinciples. I have come to understand theblessing of Church callings.
The Liahona (French) has also helpedstrengthen my faith. When I was in avillage where the gospel has not yet come,the Liahona helped me keep my virtue. Iwas comforted until I was able to return tomy home. Thanks to the Liahona, my faithhas grown.
Diemo Kalambay,Gecamines Second Ward,Lubumbashi Democratic Republic of Congo Stake
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READING THE LIAHONA IS A JOY
I have had the gospel in my life since Iwas six years old. The Liahona (Spanish)was always in our home. Each time myfather received the month’s issue, it was ajoy for me because I knew that I could readit too. Now I’m raising my own children inthe gospel, and I know that Jesus Christ isthe only way back to our Heavenly Father.
Nancy Galindo de Pérez,Windy Ridge (Spanish) Branch,Orlando Florida South Stake
A TESTIMONY OF JESUS CHRIST
It is marvelous to have a testimony ofJesus Christ. And it is even better to sharethis testimony with other people. I amgrateful to have acquired a testimony of mySavior through choosing the right, readingthe Book of Mormon, and attending semi-nary. I bear testimony that He lives andthat one day He will return.
Nayanne Frota Pontes,Sobral First Branch,Sobral Brazil District
LIAHONA HELPS STUDENTS
I love reading the Liahona (English).The stories it contains are full of love,hope, and courage. I feel Heavenly Father’sand Jesus Christ’s love every time I open it.The Liahona also helps me in my dailyendeavors as a student. It reminds me whata Latter-day Saint should do.
Florence L. Ricardo,Aurora Ward,Burgos Philippines Stake
B E R 2 0 0 2
1
FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE
PatienceA Heavenly Virtue
By President Thomas S. MonsonFirst Counselor in the First Presidency
Several years ago I met an old friend I had not seen for some time. Hegreeted me with the salutation, “Howis the world treating you?” I don’t
recall the specifics of my reply, but his provocative ques-tion caused me to reflect on my many blessings and mygratitude for life itself and the privilege and opportunityto serve.
At times the response to this same question brings an unanticipated answer. Some years ago I attended astake conference in Texas. I was met at the airport bythe stake president, and while we were driving to thestake center, I said, “President, how is everything goingfor you?”
He responded: “I wish you had asked me that questiona week earlier, for this week has been rather eventful. On Friday I was terminated from my employment, thismorning my wife came down with bronchitis, and thisafternoon the family dog was struck and killed by apassing car. Other than these things, I guess everything is
all right.”L I A
APPLY THE VIRTUE OF PATIENCE
Life is full of difficulties, some minor and others of amore serious nature. There seems to be an unendingsupply of challenges for one and all. Our problem is thatwe often expect instantaneous solutions to such chal-lenges, forgetting that frequently the heavenly virtue ofpatience is required.
The counsel heard in our youth is still applicabletoday and should be heeded. “Hold your horses,” “Keepyour shirt on,” “Slow down,” “Don’t be in such a hurry,”“Follow the rules,” “Be careful” are more than triteexpressions. They describe sincere counsel and speak thewisdom of experience.
The mindless and reckless speeding of a youth-filledcar down a winding and hazardous canyon road can bringa sudden loss of control, the careening of the car with itsprecious cargo over the precipice, and the downwardplunge that ofttimes brings permanent incapacity, per-haps premature death, and grieving hearts of loved ones.The glee-filled moment can turn in an instant to a life-time of regret.
Oh, precious youth, please give life a chance. Apply
the virtue of patience.H O N A
2
Perhaps there has never occurred
such a demonstration of patience as
that exemplified by Job, who was
described in the Holy Bible as being
perfect and upright. Job personified
patience.
LEFT
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PATIENCE IN ADVERSITY
In sickness, with its attendant pain, patience isrequired. If the only perfect man who ever lived—evenJesus of Nazareth—was called upon to endure greatsuffering, how can we, who are less than perfect, expectto be free of such challenges?
Who can count the vast throngs of the lonely, theaged, the helpless—those who feel abandoned by thecaravan of life as it moves relentlessly onward and thendisappears beyond the sight of those who ponder, whowonder, and who sometimes question as they are leftalone with their thoughts. Patience can be a helpfulcompanion during such stressful times.
Occasionally I visit nursinghomes, where long-suffering isfound. While attending Sundayservices at one facility, I noticed a young girl who was to play herviolin for the comfort of thoseassembled. She told me she wasnervous and hoped she could doher best. As she played, one calledout, “Oh, you are so pretty, and youplay so beautifully.” The strains ofthe moving bow across the tautstrings and the elegant movementof the young girl’s fingers seemed inspired by theimpromptu comment. She played magnificently.
Afterward, I congratulated her and her gifted accom-panist. They responded, “We came to cheer the frail, thesick, and the elderly. Our fears vanished as we played. We forgot our own cares and concerns. We may havecheered them, but they truly did inspire us.”
Sometimes the tables are reversed. A dear and cherishedyoung friend, Wendy Bennion of Salt Lake City, was suchan example. Almost seven years ago, she quietly departedmortality and returned “to that God who gave [her] life.”1
She had struggled for over five long years in her battle with
The Savior gave His
the grave would be
victory, that death wo
cancer. Ever cheerful, always reaching out to help others,
L I A
never losing faith, she attracted others to her as a magnetattracts metal shavings. While Wendy was ill and in pain, afriend of hers, feeling downcast with her own situation,visited her. Nancy, Wendy’s mother, knowing Wendy was inextreme pain, felt that perhaps the friend had stayed toolong. She asked Wendy, after the friend had left, why shehad allowed her to stay so long when she herself was in somuch pain. Wendy’s response: “What I was doing for myfriend was a lot more important than the pain I was having.If I can help her, then the pain is worth it.”
THE SAVIOR’S PATIENCE
Wendy’s attitude was reminiscent of Him who borethe sorrows of the world, whopatiently suffered excruciatingpain and disappointment, butwho, with silent step of Hissandaled feet, passed by a manwho was blind from birth, re-storing his sight. He approachedthe grieving widow of Nain andraised her son from the dead. Hetrudged up Calvary’s steep slope,carrying His own cruel cross,undistracted by the constant jeersand taunting that accompanied
His every step. For He had an appointment with divinedestiny. In a very real way He visits us, each one, withHis teachings. He brings cheer and inspires goodness.He gave His precious life that the grave would bedeprived of its victory, that death would lose its sting,that life eternal would be our gift.
Taken from the cross, buried in a borrowed tomb,this man of sorrows, acquainted with grief, arose on themorning of the third day. His Resurrection was dis-covered by Mary and the other Mary when theyapproached the tomb. The great stone blocking theentrance had been rolled away. Came the query of two
precious life that
deprived of its
uld lose its sting.
angels who stood by in shining garments: “Why seek ye
H O N A
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His Resurrection was discovered by Mary and the other Mary when they approached the tomb. Came the query
of two angels: “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen.”
the living among the dead? He is not here, but isrisen.”2
Paul declared to the Hebrews, “Wherefore seeing wealso are compassed about with so great a cloud ofwitnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin whichdoth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience therace that is set before us.”3
OTHER EXAMPLES OF PATIENCE
Perhaps there has never occurred such a demonstra-tion of patience as that exemplified by Job, who wasdescribed in the Holy Bible as being perfect and uprightand one who feared God and eschewed evil.4 He wasblessed with great wealth and riches in abundance. Satanobtained leave from the Lord to try to tempt Job. Howgreat was Job’s misery, how terrible his loss, how torturedhis life. He was urged by his wife to curse God and die.
His later reply bespoke his faith: “I know that myS E P T E M
redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter dayupon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroythis body, yet in my flesh shall I see God.”5 What faith,what courage, what trust. Job lost possessions—all ofthem. Job lost his health—all of it. Job honored the trustgiven him. Job personified patience.
Another who portrayed the virtue of patience was theProphet Joseph Smith. After his supernal experience inthe grove called Sacred, where the Father and the Sonappeared to him, he was called upon to wait. At length,after Joseph suffered through over three years of derisionfor his beliefs, the angel Moroni appeared to him. Andthen more waiting and patience were required. Let usremember the counsel found in Isaiah: “My thoughts arenot your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saiththe Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth,so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts
6
than your thoughts.”B E R 2 0 0 2
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THE SAVIOR’S INVITATION
Today in our hurried and hectic lives, we could well goback to an earlier time for the lesson taught us regardingcrossing dangerous streets. “Stop, look, and listen” werethe watchwords. Could we not apply them now? Stopfrom a reckless road to ruin. Look upward for heavenlyhelp. Listen for His invitation: “Come unto me, all ye thatlabour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”7
He will teach us the truth of the beautiful verse:
Life is real! Life is earnest!And the grave is not its goal;Dust thou art, to dust returnest,Was not spoken of the soul.8
We will learn that each of us is precious to our Elder Brother,even the Lord Jesus Christ. Hetruly loves us.
His life is the flawless exampleof one afflicted with sorrows anddisappointments, who nonethelessprovided the example of forgettingself and serving others. The re-membered verse of childhoodechoes afresh:
Yes, Jesus loves me!Yes, Jesus loves me!Yes, Jesus loves me!The Bible tells me so!9
And so does the Book of Mormon, so does theDoctrine and Covenants, and so does the Pearl of GreatPrice. Let the scriptures be your guide, and you will neverfind yourself traveling the road to nowhere.
Today, some are out of work, out of money, out of self-confidence. Hunger haunts their lives, and discourage-
Many years ago in e
the flame of freedom
burned low. Patie
requir
ment dogs their paths. But help is here—even food for
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the hungry, clothing for the naked, and shelter for thehomeless.
Thousands of tons move outward from our Churchstorehouses weekly—even food, clothing, medical equip-ment and supplies to the far corners of the earth and toempty cupboards and needy people closer to home.
I am inspired by the devotion which prompts busy andtalented dentists and doctors on a regular basis to leavetheir practices and donate their skills to those who needsuch help. They travel to faraway places to repair cleftpalates, correct malformed bones, and restore crippledbodies—all for the love of God’s children. The afflictedwho have patiently waited for corrective help are blessed
by these “angels in disguise.”
PATIENCE IN GERMANY
In the words of a well-knownsong, I wish you could “come flywith me” to eastern Germany,where I visited many times. Notlong ago, as I traveled along theautobahns, I reflected on a timealmost 35 years before when I saw on the same autobahns justtrucks carrying armed soldiers andpolicemen. Barking dogs everywherestrained on their leashes, and in-
formers walked the streets. Back then, the flame offreedom had flickered and burned low. A wall of shamesprang up, and a curtain of iron came down. Hope wasall but snuffed out. Life, precious life, continued on infaith, nothing wavering. Patient waiting was required.An abiding trust in God marked the life of each Latter-day Saint.
When I made my initial visit beyond the wall, it was atime of fear on the part of our members as they struggled inthe performance of their duties. I found the dullness ofdespair on the faces of many passersby but a bright and
astern Germany,
had flickered and
nt waiting was
ed.
beautiful expression of love emanating from our members.
H O N A
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First, patriarchs were ordained, then lesson manuals produced. Wards were formed and stakes created.
Chapels and stake centers were built. Then, miracle of miracles, a holy temple of God was permitted.
In Görlitz the building in which we met was shell-pockedfrom the war, but the interior reflected the tender care ofour leaders in bringing brightness and cleanliness to anotherwise shabby and grimy structure. The Church hadsurvived both a world war and the cold war whichfollowed. The singing of the Saints brightened every soul.They sang the old Sunday School favorite:
If the way be full of trial; Weary not!If it’s one of sore denial, Weary not!If it now be one of weeping,There will come a joyous greeting,When the harvest we are reaping—Weary not!
Do not weary by the way,Whatever be thy lot;There awaits a brighter day
10
To all, to all who weary not!S E P T E M
I was touched by their sincerity. I was humbled bytheir poverty. They had so little. My heart filled withsorrow because they had no patriarch. They had nowards or stakes—just branches. They could not receivetemple blessings—neither endowment nor sealing. Noofficial visitor had come from Church headquarters in a long time. The members were forbidden to leave thecountry. Yet they trusted in the Lord with all their hearts,and they leaned not to their own understanding. In alltheir ways they acknowledged Him, and He directedtheir paths.11 I stood at the pulpit, and with tear-filledeyes and a voice choked with emotion, I made a promiseto the people: “If you will remain true and faithful to thecommandments of God, every blessing any member ofthe Church enjoys in any other country will be yours.”
That night as I realized what I had promised, I dropped
to my knees and prayed: “Heavenly Father, I’m on Thy
errand; this is Thy Church. I have spoken words that
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came not from me, but from Thee
and Thy Son. Wilt Thou, there-
fore, fulfill the promise in the lives
of this noble people.” There coursed
through my mind the words from
the psalm, “Be still, and know that I
am God.”12 The heavenly virtue of
patience was required.
Little by little the promise wasfulfilled. First, patriarchs were ordained, then lessonmanuals produced. Wards were formed and stakescreated. Chapels and stake centers were begun, com-pleted, and dedicated. Then, miracle of miracles, a holytemple of God was permitted, designed, constructed, anddedicated. Finally, after an absence of 50 years, approvalwas granted for full-time missionaries to enter the nationand for local youth to serve elsewhere in the world.Then, like the wall of Jericho, the Berlin Wall crumbled,and freedom, with its attendant responsibilities,returned.
All of the parts of the precious promise of almost 35years earlier were fulfilled, save one. Tiny Görlitz,where the promise had been given, still had no chapelof its own. Now, even that dream became a reality. Thebuilding was approved and completed. Dedication daydawned. Sister Monson and I, along with Elder andSister Dieter Uchtdorf, held a meeting of dedication inGörlitz. The same songs were sung as were rendered allthose years earlier. The members knew the significanceof the occasion, marking the total fulfillment of thepromise. They wept as they sang. The song of the righ-teous was indeed a prayer unto the Lord and had beenanswered with a blessing upon their heads.13
At the conclusion of the meeting we were reluctant toleave. As we did so, seen were the waving hands of all,heard were the words, “Auf Wiedersehen, auf Wiedersehen;God be with you till we meet again.”
Patience, that heavenly virtue, had brought to humble
We held a meeting
Görlitz. The mem
significance of the
wept as the
Saints its heaven-sent reward. The words of Rudyard
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Kipling’s “Recessional” seemed sofitting:
The tumult and the shouting dies;The captains and the kings depart.Still stands thine ancient sacrifice,An humble and a contrite heart.Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,Lest we forget, lest we forget.14 �
NOTES1. Alma 40:11.2. Luke 24:5–6.3. Hebrews 12:1.4. See Job 1:1.5. Job 19:25–26.6. Isaiah 55:8–9.7. Matthew 11:28.8. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, “A Psalm of Life,” lines 5–8.9. “Jesus Loves Me!” Alexander’s Gospel Songs, compiled by
Charles M. Alexander (1908), 139.10. “If the Way Be Full of Trial, Weary Not,” Deseret Sunday
School Songs (1909), number 158.11. See Proverbs 3:5–6.12. Psalm 46:10.13. See D&C 25:12.14. “God of Our Fathers, Known of Old,” Hymns, number 80.
IDEAS FOR HOME TEACHERS
A few examples of how this message could be sharedare listed below.
1. Ask a family member to perform a task that requirespatience and asking for help, such as putting together acomplex puzzle, solving a difficult math problem, orreading and explaining a difficult chapter in the scrip-tures. Why did the task seem difficult? How was patienceneeded to complete it?
2. Ask family members to tell of times when the Saviorshowed patience. Discuss ways Jesus’ promise in Matthew11:28 could help a person have greater patience.
3. Tell of a time when having patience helped you, and invite family members to share their experienceswith patience. Testify of the importance of patience in
of dedication in
bers knew the
occasion. They
y sang.
your life.
H O N A
8
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Moses spoke to the Lord
“as a man speaketh
unto his friend.” When I
tried the same thing,
something wonderful
happened.
FACE TO FACEBy Kristie Masumi King
Iused to look at the Old Testament insort of the same way I looked at fairytales—neat stories that didn’t really
relate to my life. Separated from me bythousands of years of history, they seemedfar removed from reality. However, myseminary teacher loved the Old Testament,and his enthusiasm and humble testimonybegan to instill in me a greater reverence forthese scriptures.
One night as I was studying, I cameacross this verse: “And the Lord spake untoMoses face to face, as a man speaketh untohis friend” (Exodus 33:11).
I read these words, and at first I wasn’tparticularly influenced by them. The Lordspoke to Moses. Of course He did. Itseemed only natural for the Lord to appearpersonally to one of His prophets.
Then I prayed, and I really started tothink about that scripture. I knew HeavenlyFather wouldn’t appear to me that night, but
maybe I could try to speak to Him “as aman speaketh unto his friend.” It was
then that I felt His love envelop me.
S E P T E M
As I prayed, I restated inmy own words what I had read: “Mosesspoke to Thee face to face, just like afriend.” I stopped. I said it again andagain.
Then it hit me. The realization was soprofound yet so simple. Moses saw God faceto face. Suddenly Old Testament times werenot so distant, and I realized that Moseshad been a mortal—just like me. The scrip-tures came to life in my mind; I knew thatMoses had actually lived and breathed, thathe, too, had experienced challenges andstruggled with a lack of confidence. Yet hetalked to the Messiah, the Jehovah of Israel,his Lord and Redeemer—my Lord andRedeemer—in the same manner I spoke tomy own earthly father.
“Heavenly Father,” I prayed again, “morethan anything else, I want to return toThee!” I closed my prayer and crawled intobed, feeling His love more tangibly than Iever had in my life. �
Kristie Masumi King is a member of the BYU
162nd Ward, Brigham Young University 19th Stake.
B E R 2 0 0 2
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L I A H O N A
10
“He Loved Themunto the End”
THE
LAST
SU
PPER
, BY
SIM
ON
DEW
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CO
URT
ESY
OF
ALTU
S FI
NE
ART,
AM
ERIC
AN F
ORK
, U
TAH
By Elder Jeffrey R. HollandOf the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
I wish to thank you, the faithfulmembers of the Church, for your sus-taining vote. It is no small thing to“sustain” another person. The word
literally means to “uphold” or, if you prefer, to “hold up.”When we sustain life, we nourish it, we keep it going.When we sustain a friend or a neighbor or a stranger inthe street, we give support, we share strength, we providehelp. We hold each other up under the weight of presentcircumstance. We bear one another’s burdens under theheavy personal pressures of life.
JESUS PROVIDES SUSTENANCE
As with all else in our experience, the Lord JesusChrist is our exemplar and ideal in this very importantmatter of providing sustenance. His is the ultimate armof strength and His the endurance which endures allthings. At no time did He demonstrate that unfailingdevotion more clearly than during the final moments ofHis earthly life, hours when He might well have wishedthat others could have been sustaining Him.
S E P T E M
As with all else in our experience, the Lord Jesus
Christ is our exemplar and ideal in this very important
matter of providing sustenance.
As the sacred supper of that ultimate Passover wasbeing prepared, Jesus was under the strain of deep andprofound emotion. Only He knew what lay immediatelyahead, but perhaps even He did not fully anticipate thedepth of pain to which He must go before it could besaid, “The Son of Man hath descended below them all”(D&C 122:8).
In the midst of this meal and such thoughts, Christquietly arose, girded Himself as a slave or servant would,and knelt to wash the Apostles’ feet (see John 13:3–17).This small circle of believers in this scarcely foundedkingdom was about to pass through their severest trial, soHe would set aside His own increasing anguish in orderthat He might yet once more serve and strengthen them.It does not matter that no one washed His feet. In tran-scendent humility He would continue to teach and to cleanse them. He would to the final hour—andbeyond—be their sustaining servant. As John, who wasthere and watched the wonder of it all, wrote, “Havingloved his own which were in the world, he loved themunto the end” (John 13:1).
So it had been, and so it was to be—through thenight, and through the pain, and forever. He wouldalways be their strength, and no anguish in His own soulwould ever keep Him from that sustaining role.
In the moonlit silence of that Near Eastern night,every acute pain, every heartfelt grief, every crushing
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Only His pure love enables Him—and us—to bear all
things, believe all things, hope all things, and endure
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wrong and human hurt experienced by every man,woman, and child in the human family was to be heapedupon His weary shoulders. But in such a moment, whensomeone might have said it to Him, He rather says to us,“Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid”(John 14:27).
“Ye shall be sorrowful,” He said—sad, lonely, fright-ened, and sometimes even persecuted—“but your sorrowshall be turned into joy. . . . Be of good cheer; I have over-come the world” (John 16:20, 33).
How can He speak that way? Of good cheer and joy?On a night like this? With the pain He knew was justahead? But those are the blessings He always brought,and that is how He always spoke—to the very end.
JESUS ENDURED AND TRIUMPHED
We cannot know to what extent His disciples fullyunderstood the approaching events, but we do know thatChrist faced His final moments alone. In one of the trulycandid comments He would make to His brethren, Hesaid, “My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death”(Matthew 26:38). And He left them to do what only Hecould do. The Light of the World stepped away fromhuman company and entered the garden grove to wrestle
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with the prince of darkness alone. Moving forward,kneeling, falling forward on His face, He cried with ananguish you and I will never know, “O my Father, if it bepossible, let this cup pass from me” (Matthew 26:39). ButHe knew, for our sakes, that it could not pass and that
He must drink that bitter cup to the dregs.His disciples, understandably, were weary and
soon fell asleep. What of Christ’s sleep? What of Hisfatigue? What rest or slumber will sustain Himthrough such an agonizing ordeal? That is simply not
His concern here, nor does it ever seem to be. He willendure. He will triumph. He will not falter nor fail us.
Even in crucifixion He would reign with the benevo-lence and bearing of a King. Of those who rend His fleshand spill His blood, He says, “Father, forgive them; forthey know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). And to thepenitent thief at His side He gently promises paradise. To His beloved mother He is unable to make any caringgesture with His hands. So He simply looks at her andsays, “Woman, behold thy son!” Then commending toJohn her future care, He declares, “Behold thy mother!”(John 19:26–27). He would be concerned for others—but especially for her—to the very end.
Because He must ultimately tread this winepress ofredemption unaided, can He endure the darkest momentof them all, the shock of the greatest pain? This comesnot with thorns and with nails but with the terror offeeling utterly alone: “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? . . .My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Mark15:34). Can He bear all of our sins and our fear and lone-liness too? He did and He does and He will.
We do not know how such great sorrow can be borne,
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but it is no wonder the sun hid its face in shame. Nowonder the veil of the temple was rent. No wonder thevery earth convulsed at the plight of this perfect child.And at least one Roman centurion who saw all of thissensed something of what it had meant. In awe, heuttered the declaration for all eternity, “Truly this wasthe Son of God” (Matthew 27:54).
PURE LOVE OF CHRIST NEVER FAILETH
Life has its share of some fear and some failure.Sometimes things fall short, don’t quite measure up.Sometimes in both personal and public life, we are
seemingly left without strength to go on. Sometimespeople fail us, or economies and circumstance fail us,and life with its hardship and heartache can leave usfeeling very alone.
But when such difficult moments come to us, Itestify that there is one thing which will never, ever failus. One thing alone will stand the test of all time, of alltribulation, all trouble, and all transgression. Onething only never faileth—and that is the pure love ofChrist.
“I remember,” Moroni cries to the Savior of the world,“that thou hast said that thou hast loved the world, evenunto the laying down of thy life for the world. . . . Now I know,” he writes, “that this love which thou hast hadfor the children of men is charity” (Ether 12:33–34).
Having watched a dispensation die and an entire civi-lization destroy itself, Moroni quotes his father for any whowill listen in some later (“latter”) day, “If ye have notcharity, ye are nothing” (Moroni 7:46). Only the pure loveof Christ will see us through. It is Christ’s love whichsuffereth long and is kind. It is Christ’s love which is notpuffed up nor easily provoked. Only His pure love enablesHim—and us—to bear all things, believe all things, hopeall things, and endure all things (see Moroni 7:45).
Oh, love effulgent, love divine!What debt of gratitude is mine,That in his off’ring I have partAnd hold a place within his heart.(“God Loved Us, So He Sent His Son,”
Hymns, number 187)
I testify that having loved us who are in the world,Christ loves us to the end. His pure love never failsus. Not now. Not ever. Not ever. �
From an October 1989 general conference address.
My Friend and Fellow ServantThe Example of Luan Felix da Silva
R E C I F E , B R A Z I L
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By Elder Claudio R. M. CostaOf the Seventy
Whenever I think of the Savior’sparable of the sheep and the goats andof His wonderful promises to those whoserve Him (see Matthew 25:31–46), I
picture a young boy named Luan. I first met Luan in February 2001 at a Young Men camp
in Recife, Brazil. In Brazil, it was the time of Carnival—a holiday that has become four days of unruly partying.During Carnival, stakes often hold youth conferences andcamps to give Latter-day Saint youth a fun and wholesomealternative. In my assignment as President of the BrazilNorth Area, I was visiting one such Young Men camp inthe Recife Brazil Boa Viagem Stake.
When I first saw Luan, I noticed that he was quitethin and did not have even a single hair on his head. Ialso noticed that he had many friends. And I learnedthat he had just turned 12 and was going to be ordaineda deacon during the camp.
I also learned that Luan had bone cancer in his leftleg. In fact, just before camp he had learned that thecancer was progressing so rapidly his leg needed to beamputated immediately. But because Luan wanted sobadly to receive the Aaronic Priesthood at camp and toplay soccer with his friends one last time, his doctor hadagreed to postpone the surgery for a week.
Now, surrounded by his brothers in the Church, Luanliterally beamed with happiness. After his priesthoodordination on Sunday, Luan bore a beautiful testimonyabout his faith in the gospel and his gratitude for the
Savior’s love.L I A
I approached Luan, and we became fast friends. Afterhis surgery, I visited him in his home, along with hisbishop, Ozani Farias, and his stake president, Mozart B.Soares. These good leaders were a blessing in Luan’s life.They were always there to comfort, support, and help him.
I felt the Spirit very strongly in Luan’s home. Luan,along with his mother and sisters, had joined the Churcheight months earlier. There was no father in the home,and Luan’s mother worked hard to provide for the family.Their small house was tidy and clean, and I knew thatsimple home sheltered a very special family.
During our visit, we noticed that the family lackedmany basic things. For example, Luan had to sleep on anuncomfortable couch because he had no bed. But whenwe asked what the family needed, they replied, “We havethe gospel, our friends at church, and a happy family.Thank you, but we need nothing else.”
A short time after our visit, Luan’s condition wors-ened, and his doctors found a large tumor at the base of his spinal cord. It could not be removed surgically, so Luan went to the hospital for another round ofchemotherapy.
One night when President Soares and I visited Luanin the hospital, we found him in a lot of pain. He askedus several questions, including “What is death?” and“What is dying like?”
I explained that dying is part of eternity and thatdeath is not a closing door but a door that opens for us aswe go back to the presence of God. Luan understood andsmiled. He said that now he was prepared. Then he askedus to give him a blessing, and we did so.
In the bed next to Luan was a 14-year-old boy named
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Pedro. Now Pedro asked us to bless him too. I asked if he had faith in Jesus Christ, and he said he did. Weexplained what the priesthood is and that we would beblessing him in the name of Jesus Christ. He closed hiseyes and smiled as we blessed him. Next an 18-year-oldyoung woman asked us to give her a blessing too.
I found out that Luan and his mother had comfortedPedro and many of the other young cancer patients andtheir parents. As I left the hospital that night, I wasedified to see that Luan and his mother, though sufferingthemselves, found the strength to visit others andminister to their needs.
When President Soares asked Luan what he would like to do when he left thehospital, Luan said he would like to perform vicarious baptisms in the Recife Brazil Temple. After Luan left the hospital, Presi-dent Soares and Bishop Fariashelped him fulfill this desire.Luan performed as many
baptisms as his strength would allow. At the end of hisday at the temple, he was beaming with happiness thathe could do something for others, even though he was ingreat pain himself.
Luan Felix da Silva died on 20 August 2001. When-ever I think of my friend and fellow servant, I am re-minded of the Savior’s words:
“Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdomprepared for you . . . :
“For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I wasthirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and yetook me in:
“Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, andye visited me. . . .
“And the King shall . . . say unto them, Verily I say unto
you, Inasmuch as ye have doneit unto one of the least ofthese my brethren, ye havedone it unto me” (Matthew25:34–36, 40). �
Luan never stopped
serving. While in
great pain he
attended the Recife
Brazil Temple. Inset:
Luan with Elder Costa,
Bishop Ozani Farias, and
Luan’s mother.
“PLAIN, SIMPLE TRUTHS”
Young Men and Women Apply the
SIX B’SIn a special fireside held on 12 November 2000, President Gordon B. Hinckley addressed the youthand young adults of the Church (see “A Prophet’s Counsel and Prayer for Youth,” Liahona, April2001, 30–41). His message focused on six principles—six B’s—to help young people make correctdecisions and successfully deal with the challenges of today’s world. We asked young people to shareexperiences they have had in applying President Hinckley’s counsel. Following are a few of the manyresponses we received.
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It had been a long week. I walkedinto the fireside broadcast late,struggling to filter out thoughts
of exams, assignments, work, andfriends. I hoped that somehow thewords of the prophet could piercethrough all these concerns and sinkinto my heart.
Oh, how I hoped and silentlyprayed for help to focus on the wordsof the prophet. And my prayer wasanswered. I walked into the firesidewith my view clouded and troubled.When I left, I had a refreshed out-look on life and some plain, simpletruths—a recipe for happiness.
Be grateful, be smart, be clean, betrue, be humble, and be prayerful. How
simple these statements are. Howgreat a difference they can make inmy life!
I know this gospel contains truththat is lacking elsewhere. I knowthat the prophet loves me. I amgrateful that our Heavenly Fatherand the Savior love us enough togive us specific, individual guidancein our lives through prayer andthrough the words of our prophet.These things are plain, simple, andtrue.Lisa Ware, age 19,
Rochedale Ward,
Eight Mile Plains Australia Stake
BE GRATEFUL
“The habit of saying thank you is the
mark of an educated man or woman.L I A H O N A
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. . . Be thankful to your parents, whocare so very much about you and whohave worked so very hard to provide foryou.”—President Gordon B. Hinckley
When I finished reading PresidentHinckley’s talk, I felt a strange senseof happiness and sadness. I am a high school student. My parents arepaying all of my school expenses. Ihad thought that was a given. I alsothought it was a given that theywould buy my clothes, food, andeverything necessary for me. I thoughtthis was just the normal way of life. Ialmost never said the words thankyou. If I did not get the things Iwanted, I got angry. Now, havingread this talk, I am embarrassed. I
realize that I am truly fortunate to P
Be grateful
have what I have. I think the wordsthank you are wonderful words.Aya Chikano, age 13,
Kariya Ward,
Okazaki Japan Stake
“Thank the Lord for His marvelousChurch restored in this great season ofhistory. Thank Him for all that it offersyou. Thank Him for friends and lovedones, for parents and brothers and sisters,for family. Let a spirit of thanksgiving
Be smart
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guide and bless your days and nights.”—President Gordon B. Hinckley
When I was small I would often go to my parents and familymembers to get things. But becauseI was so young, I did not realize thatI should say, “Thank you.” I did notunderstand what thankfulness was.When I grew older, however, I grad-ually came to understand gratitude.Our attitude toward God is similar.There are those of us who ask ofGod in prayer, and God gives usappropriate answers and blessings,but sometimes we do not showgratitude. If we thank God sincerely,the blessings we receive will mostcertainly be even greater.Chiang Chien-Yen, age 14,
Tao Yuan Second Ward,
Tao Yuan Taiwan Stake
BE SMART
“You belong to a church thatteaches the importance of edu-cation. . . . [The Lord] wants youto train your minds and hands to
become an influence for good as you goforward with your lives. And as you do
so and as you perform honorably andwith excellence, you will bring
honor to the Church, for youwill be regarded as a man or
woman of integrity andability and conscien-tious workmanship.”—President Gordon B.
HinckleyAfter I heard President Hinckley’smessage, I made many resolutionsin my life. I decided I would giveevery effort to obtaining a bettereducation. I’m a university studentright now, and sometimes it hasbeen hard for me to do well in myacademic classes and take instituteat the same time. Sometimes I haveneglected one or the other. But nowI realize that the Lord wants us tobe intelligent and to accomplishthings, so I have decided to gradu-ate from institute as well as fromthe university.
I took notes at the fireside, buthaving the complete text of thetalk in the Liahona (Spanish) hasenabled me to review PresidentHinckley’s words. And they are stillhaving an influence on me, as if I had just heard them. No matterwhere we live—in a small countrylike mine or in a large nation—Iknow that if we will listen to theprophet’s voice and follow hiscounsel, the Lord will bless ourlives and help us become betterpeople.Jenny Elisa Jaimes Utani, age 23,
Job Ward,
Lima Perú Las Violetas Stake
BE CLEAN
“[Illicit drugs] will destroy you ifpursued. You will become their slave. . . . My advice, my pleading to you
wonderful young men and women, is P
Be clean
Be true
to stay entirely away from them. . . .Stay clean from these mind-alteringand habit-forming addictions.”—President Gordon B. Hinckley
I am 16 years old and am encoun-tering some dangerous temptations. IfI had not heard President Hinckley’stalk, I might not have known how toreact to one of these.
One day at school, a friend called agroup of us to come over and seesomething. When we went to see whatshe had, we discovered it was a drug,marijuana. I became pale with fear.My friend asked me to try it. Withoutthinking, I yelled, “You are crazy. Youshouldn’t have this. Let’s go!”
My friend did not listen to me,and I began to pray silently for thepower to touch the hearts of eachof my friends in the group. Igrabbed the package and threw it
away. At first my friends wereangry, but I could not contain myrelief and happiness. I used theopportunity to explain that mari-juana is wrong.
As we talked, I remembered whatPresident Hinckley said about drugs,and I was able to pass on those wordsto my friends. I know the Spirit of
the Lord was whispering to me thewords I had in my heart.Daniela Brocca, age 16,
Jardim da Saúde Ward,
São Paulo Brazil Parque Bristol Stake
BE TRUE
“You who are members of thisChurch must have a loyalty to it. Thisis your church. . . . You haveembraced its gospel. You have takenupon yourselves a covenant in thewaters of baptism. This you haverenewed each time you have partakenof the sacrament. . . . Walk in faithbefore [God] with your heads high,proud of your membership in this
Be humble
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great cause and kingdom which Hehas restored to the earth.”—PresidentGordon B. Hinckley
The world today is dangerousand filled with temptations. Afterreading President Hinckley’s talk, Ifelt more strongly than ever that I must obey the teachings of theChurch. The B that is especiallyimportant for me right now is “Betrue.”
When school started this year, Imade some new friends. One day I
had the opportunity to talk about thegospel. I remembered the video I sawat church about the six B’s. Whilewatching that video I was filled with aspirit of peace that assured me, “Youcan talk about the Church with confi-dence.” When the opportunity came,I was able to do so. I am thankful forthat chance.
Reading the talk in the Liahona(Japanese) later, I noticed the well-known phrase “To thine own self be true.” When some sort of bigdecision needs to be made, these
words lead me to the correct path.The other B’s are also important,but most of all I want to be true tomyself.Sakura Kajihara, age 15,
Izumi Ward,
Sendai Japan Stake
BE HUMBLE
“I believe the meek and the humbleare those who are teachable. They arewilling to learn. They are willing tolisten to the whisperings of the still,small voice for guidance in their lives.
They place the wisdom of the Lord P
Be prayerful
above their own wisdom.”—PresidentGordon B. Hinckley
In my daily life there are many temp-tations surrounding me, and wheneverthey become unbearable I silently sing ahymn in my mind or sincerely pray toHeavenly Father for help. When I dothis, those bad thoughts and ideas leaveme. I know that Heavenly Father lovesme. As long as I am humble, He willlisten to my prayers and help me over-come difficulties.
When I have a measure of success,it can be hard for me to avoid somearrogance—believing that the successcame by my own effort. But wheneverI think like this, I find I am unable todo anything well. Only afterward do Irealize that any success I have comesnot because of my merit but becauseGod is helping me. I have learnedfrom these experiences and fromPresident Hinckley’s reminder that wemust be humble.Hsu Wei-You, age 16,
Tao Yuan Second Ward,
Tao Yuan Taiwan Stake
BE PRAYERFUL
“So live that in good conscience youcan speak with the Lord. . . . The miracleof it all is that He hears. He responds. Heanswers—not always as we might wishHe would answer, but there is no ques-tion in my mind that He answers.”—President Gordon B. Hinckley
I have found that when I get on my
knees and pray, I am comforted and Ifeel Heavenly Father’s overwhelminglove for me. An experience I hadrecently with prayer helped me knowwith a surety that He answers ourprayers.
I had been having a very difficultday, and when I got home fromschool I immediately went to myknees and asked Heavenly Father tohelp me know that I was loved. Rightafter I said, “Amen,” my older sistercame into my room and told me sheloved me. I was overcome with theSpirit, and this experience definitelyadded to my testimony of prayer.I pray every day—and try tokeep a prayer in my heart. �
Shannon Watson, age 17,
Highland 20th Ward,
Highland Utah East Stake
By Brenda Williams
My Terrible, HORRIBLEDay
Stress, doubt, and more stress.
How was I going to deal with it all?
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Isat on the edge of my bed, balancing my thick biologybook as I attempted to study for the next day’s test. AsI slowly turned the pages of the complicated chapter
on cellular respiration, my jaw tightened as I tried toconcentrate. But it was useless.
My eyes filled with tears. I had failed miserably thatevening trying out for the play. It had been my firstattempt at high school theater. Although untrained inthe arts of dancing, acting, and singing, I had undertakenthe challenging musical tryouts at the urging of myfriends. I hadn’t done well. My dancing and my singingaudition seemed about average. But tonight had beenthe final test, the portion I had counted on for success—a memorized humorous monologue, performed beforethe critical eyes of the director and audition board. I hadprepared for my monologue days in advance, writing andmemorizing the script carefully until I was certain I couldperform it even in my sleep. But when I reached theschool, I couldn’t think clearly. I was not only nervousbut also tired and worried about my two difficult testsscheduled for the next day. I tried to remember my lines,those words I knew so well, but they slipped from me infragments and spilled out shaky and uncertain.
Now back at home I felt a hot tear brush my lips, and
I tried to muffle a sob. Nothing seemed to be going rightL I A
the past few weeks. One of my closest friends was actingcold and distant. My schedule was difficult and stressful.I was feeling nagging doubts about applying to college.And now, after the embarrassment of tonight’s audi-tion, I didn’t know how I could study or even sleep. Ishut my biology book and placed it on the floor, emotionoverpowering me as I buried my head in my pillow.
Then I heard my door open and my mother’s con-cerned voice. “Do you need a blessing?” she askedsoftly. I looked up, tempted to send her away. Mypuffy red face, streaked by tears, held the imprint ofmy pillow’s seams. As I pulled myself into a sittingposition and saw both my parents in the doorway, Iknew that a priesthood blessing was what I needed mostof all. I nodded wordlessly, sniffing a bit as I stood andfollowed my parents across the hall into their room.
I had a testimony of the priesthood before thatnight. I had heard of blessings given by pioneers.And I had heard of blessings given in moderntimes to fire victims, children in comas, andpeople who were not expected to survive. I hadreceived my patriarchal blessing two yearsbefore and knew the unique truthfulnessand love it contained.
But as my father placed his hands on
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my head that evening, my testimony of the priesthood was strengthened.I could feel divine power in his phrases, in the gentle pressure of hishands. The blessing swept past my superficial wants intowhat I needed to hear most. And as my fatherconcluded, my heart sang at the power in thosewords, those simple, healing words that I knewwere not his. My father couldn’t remember whathe had said, but I could—and my dark tangle ofstress and fears had loosened into a soft andgentle peace.
I smiled at my mother, grateful for herinspired suggestion. As I turned around andhugged my father, I could feel in the warmthof his arms an echo of the love of myHeavenly Father and His Son, bothwatching and caring for me morethan anyone else ever could. I felt so grateful for thatmodest blessing, thosequiet, powerful, and com-forting words.
That night I sleptdeeply for the first time inweeks, unworried and sureof my future as a beloveddaughter of God. �
Brenda Williams is a member
of the BYU 47th Ward, Brigham
Young University 12th Stake.
“TurnEverything Over to Him”
“Each of us is going toexperience pain in one form or another. . . . Painmay come from feeling lonely or depressed. Itoften comes as a result of our disobedience tothe commandments of God, but it also comes tothose who are doing all they can to keep theirlives in line with the example of the Savior. . . .
“Elder Orson F. Whitney wrote: ‘No pain thatwe suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted.It ministers to our education, to the developmentof such qualities as patience, faith, fortitude andhumility. All that we suffer and all that weendure, especially when we endure it patiently,builds up our characters, purifies our hearts,expands our souls, and makes us more tenderand charitable, more worthy to be called thechildren of God, . . . and it is through sorrow andsuffering, toil and tribulation, that we gain theeducation that we came here to acquire’ (quotedin Improvement Era, Mar. 1966, 211). . . .
“The Lord is the ultimate caregiver. We mustsurrender ourselves to the Lord. In doing so, wegive up whatever is causing our pain and turneverything over to Him. ‘Cast thy burden upon theLord, and he shall sustain thee’ (Ps. 55:22). ‘Andthen may God grant unto you that your burdensmay be light, through the joy of his Son’ (Alma33:23).”—Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorumof the Twelve Apostles (“Healing Soul and Body,”Liahona, January 1999, 18–19) �
Page 25 of the Liahona follows the local insert and The Friend.
VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE
LOVING LIFELONG LEARNING
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R ead the following with thesisters you visit, and discussthe questions, the scriptures,
and the teachings from our Churchleaders. Share your experiences andtestimony, and invite those you teach todo the same.
President Gordon B. Hinckley:“You belong to a church whichespouses education. . . . There is anessence of the divine in the improve-ment of the mind. ‘The glory of Godis intelligence, or, in other words, lightand truth.’ (D&C 93:36.) ‘Whateverprinciple of intelligence we attainunto in this life, it will rise with us inthe resurrection.’ (D&C 130:18.) . . .Education is an investment thatnever ceases to pay dividends of onekind or another” (“Rise to the Statureof the Divine within You,” Ensign,November 1989, 96).
D&C 88:118: “As all have notfaith, seek ye diligently and teachone another words of wisdom; yea,seek ye out of the best books wordsof wisdom; seek
learning, even by study and also byfaith.”
Elder Dallin H. Oaks of theQuorum of the Twelve Apostles:“We seek learning by studying theaccumulated wisdom of various dis-ciplines and by using the powers of reasoning placed in us by ourCreator. We should also seeklearning by faith in God, the giver ofrevelation. . . . Seekers who havepaid the price in perspiration havebeen magnified by inspiration. Theacquisition of knowledge by revela-tion is an extra bonus to seekers inthe sciences and the arts, but it is thefundamental method for those whoseek to know God and the doctrinesof his gospel. In this area of knowl-edge, scholarship and reason areinsufficient” (“Alternate Voices,”Ensign, May 1989, 29).
D&C 88:77–79: “I give unto youa commandment that you shall teachone another the doctrine of the king-dom. Teach ye diligently and mygrace shall attend you, that you maybe instructed more perfectly in . . . allthings that pertain unto the kingdomof God, that are expedient for you tounderstand; of things both in heavenand in the earth, and under theearth; things which have been, thingswhich are, things which must shortlycome to pass; things which are at
home, things which are abroad; thewars and the perplexities of thenations, and the judgments whichare on the land; and a knowledgealso of countries and of kingdoms.”
President Spencer W. Kimball(1895–1985): “We must be trainedto clarify minds, heal broken hearts,and create homes . . . in whichmental and spiritual health may benurtured. . . . Our schooling mustnot only teach us how to bridge theNiagara River gorge, or the GoldenGate, but must teach us how tobridge the deep gaps of misunder-standing and hate and discord in theworld” (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, edited by Edward L. Kimball[1982], 391).
President Brigham Young (1801–77): “I shall not cease learning while I live, nor when I arrive in thespirit-world; but shall there learnwith greater facility; and when Iagain receive my body, I shall learn athousand times more in a thousandtimes less time; and then I do notmean to cease learning” (Teachings ofPresidents of the Church: BrighamYoung [1997], 195).
■ How can an understanding of“line upon line” (D&C 98:12) guideour efforts as lifelong learners?
■ As we become lifelong learners,how can we encourage our families andall who fall within our sphere of influence
to become the same? �
These young men in Argentina know whatis of greatest worth.
The Treasure ofBy Richard M. Romney and Nestor Javier PassePHOTOGRAPHS OF YOUNG MEN BY RICHARD M. ROMNEY, EXCEPT AS NOTED
“If ye seek the riches which it is the
will of the Father to give unto you,
ye shall be the richest of all people,
for ye shall have the riches of
eternity” (D&C 38:39).
El Dorado
In legend, El Dorado was a place ofgreat treasure, with cities of gold. Itwas so sought after that a man
named Coronado spent his life searchingfor but never finding it. Others havefought and died over treasure too, givingtheir lives in pursuit of riches.
But others, including four youngLatter-day Saints in Buenos Aires,
Argentina, know about treasure ofanother kind. It is not treasure of thisearth but of eternity. It is the treasure ofthe restored gospel, a treasure that wasliterally brought to their doorsteps.
One afternoon in April 1999, in aBuenos Aires suburb known as ElDorado, two young men wearing
When Matías and Elías
Vallejos first heard the
missionaries speak about
a restoration of the true
Church, it seemed strange
to them. But as they studied
and prayed about the Book
of Mormon, they realized
they had been offered
a great treasure.
white shirts and ties knocked at thedoor of the Vallejos family. Theyoung men introduced themselves asmissionaries spreading the word ofGod throughout the world. Theirmessage, they said, included an invi-tation for all to find Jesus Christ andthe true path that will lead us backto God the Father.
Such a message would be treasureindeed! The father of the family, DonRubén Orlando Vallejos, felt he musthear what these young men had tosay. He started meeting with themand discussing the gospel. Althoughhis wife was not interested, his sons,
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Matías, age 12, and Elías, age 11,would sometimes listen in.
At first the boys did not compre-hend all this talk about a restorationof the true Church. But as time wentby they became increasingly con-vinced of the value of what the mis-sionaries were saying. They asked tobe taught the discussions too.
“When we had our first officiallesson with the missionaries,” Elíasexplains, “they told us to pray and ask if the Book of Mormon and the Church were true. That night Iprayed, and when I woke up the nextday, I had a desire to do all the thingsthe missionaries asked us to do. Ilearned that when we say our prayerswith a sincere heart, those prayersare always answered.”
An understanding of the power ofprayer. The beginnings of a testimony ofthe truth. These were treasure indeed.
Matías also began to find treasure.“The scriptures and publications of
Discovery of one treasure led
to another. Elías learned
about the rich experience
of prayer.
Matías discovered that a
testimony of the truth grows
more valuable when shared.
the Church helped me a lot,” hesays. One particular scripture fromthe Book of Mormon made a deepimpression on him: “O, remember,my son, and learn wisdom in thyyouth; yea, learn in thy youth tokeep the commandments of God”(Alma 37:35).
The brothers started attendingthe meetings of El Dorado Ward,Florencio Varela Argentina Stake.On 29 September 1999, with theirparents’ permission, Matías and Elíaswere baptized.
They continued to learn just howspiritually rich they could become.Two weeks after his baptism, forexample, Matías received the AaronicPriesthood and was ordained a dea-con. “I immediately felt that I hadreceived power from heaven,” he says.He also felt the influence of the HolyGhost, a gift he had received when he was confirmed a member of theChurch.
“I had been tempted into wear-ing an earring,” he says. “Then Ireceived a booklet that told me
how to dress for church and activities.
After I read that, I repented. Mymother asked me if I was going to put the earring in again. I told her I didn’t feel right about wearing itanymore. That was it. I felt strengthin being able to overcome tempta-tion. I felt the Spirit whispering tome and telling me to do what wasright.”
Power in the priesthood. Guidancefrom the Holy Ghost. Surely these weretreasure too.
Matías and Elías were so im-pressed with the things they werelearning that they wanted to sharetheir newfound understanding. Theybegan talking with some neighbor-hood friends, the Anríquez brothers.Juan Carlos was age 12, Esteban, age11. Juan Carlos seemed particularlyinterested, and he soon began tolisten to the missionary discussionsand attend Church meetings. Severalmonths later he was baptized, andshortly afterward he was ordained adeacon.
Matías and Juan Carlos continuedto progress in the priesthood. At age13, Matías was called as president ofthe deacons quorum. Elías turned 12and became a deacon. A year laterMatías turned 14, became a teacher,and was soon called as president ofthe teachers quorum. Juan Carlosalso turned 14 and was ordained ateacher.
And Juan Carlos (right) found a never-
ending source of inspirational gems by
studying the scriptures.
Esteban found that priesthood power
increases as it is used to bless and
serve as the Savior would.
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Then something wonderful hap-pened. Don Rubén Orlando Vallejos,the father of Matías and Elías, wasfinally baptized. Brother Vallejos is abutcher by profession, and his workschedule made it difficult for him toattend church. But watching his sonsprogress and serve others had inspiredhim. There was a great celebration onhis baptism day, with asado (grilledbeef) to top it off! Even more impres-sive, however, were the spiritual feel-ings of those who attended.
Matías and Elías asked theirfriend Esteban what he thoughtabout the baptism. “I answered thatI had felt something special and Iliked it very much,” Esteban recalls.They asked if he would like to listento the discussions. “I said that Iwould. ‘In fact,’ I said, ‘I’d like to bebaptized.’ ” A few weeks later, havingbeen taught the gospel,
Esteban was baptized. And soon hewas ordained a deacon.
Service in the priesthood, a treasureof fellowship. The thrill of seeing othersaccept the gospel, a treasure of joy. Suchriches are beyond measure, for they aretreasure of eternal wealth.
Visit the Aaronic Priesthood of ElDorado Ward today, and you will seethe Vallejos and Anríquez brothers in action. Elías is deacons quorumpresident, with Esteban as a counselor.Matías is teachers quorum president,with Juan Carlos as a counselor. Theyspend time each week visitingquorum members who do notattend church. They havesucceeded in bringingback several
young men who might otherwise havefallen away. Matías and Juan Carlosare old enough now to attend early-morning seminary. On Sundays allfour of these friends participatetogether in preparing and passing thesacrament. And the Vallejos brotherswill tell you that their father hasshared his testimony with some of hiscustomers, and several of them arecurrently taking the discussions.
The boys’ own testimonies havegrown as they have shared them
Today Juan Carlos and Esteban
Anríquez are grateful to Matías
and Elías for guiding them to
the gospel. “They helped us
find the greatest treasure of
all,” Esteban says. “They
helped us find the truth.”
with others. Matías talks about oneof his recent testimony-buildingexperiences: “A little while ago, onSaturday before I went to bed, I waspraying and asking that more peoplewould come to church. That Sundaythere were a lot of people there. Ifelt good about it. Things like thatstrengthen my testimony. Reading inthe Doctrine and Covenants aboutJoseph Smith strengthens my testi-mony. I want to pray like he did—hewas my age!”
Elías also knows the power ofprayer: “I know from my prayers thatthe Book of Mormon is true. I know
from my prayers that the Church istrue. I know that I will continueprogressing toward the goals I havefor myself. I’ll continue progressinguntil I leave on my mission.” Andthen he will progress even more.
Juan Carlos is thankful for theprogress he has made so far. “I amgrateful to Matías and Elías for talkingto my brother and me about theChurch,” he says. Esteban agrees.“They helped us find the greatest trea-sure of all,” he declares. “They helpedus find the truth.”
Testimony upon testimony. Eternalperspective. Riches of the heart and ofthe soul. Yes, one can find treasure inEl Dorado. It is a pearl of great price, a spiritual treasure of infiniteworth. �
LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES
LOVING AND SUSTAINING OTHERS
When we sustain a friendor a neighbor or astranger in the street,”
says Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the TwelveApostles, “we give support, weshare strength, we provide help.We hold each other up under theweight of present circumstance. Webear one another’s burdens under the heavypersonal pressures of life.” This responsibilitycomes to us as members of the Lord’s Churchbecause “as with all else in our experience, theLord Jesus Christ is our exemplar and ideal
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
“I Know That MyBy Francisca C
L I A
in this very important matter ofproviding sustenance” (see thisissue, page 11). ❦ Because wereceive such great love and suste-nance from the Savior, we desireto follow His example and love
and support others. It is this desirethat moves young men and women to
serve as missionaries and to testify ofHim. This desire also motivates members to
reach out in love to those who have strayed.The following stories illustrate how this desirechanges lives—of those who give this sustaininglove and those who receive it.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Redeemer Lives”ristina Villar Rey
As we gave the presentation,
Sister McKee and I could hardly
read our parts because our
emotion was so great. CH
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HE
BOO
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ON
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ILD
REN
, BY
DEL
PAR
SON
; IL
LUST
RATI
ON
S BY
BRI
AN C
ALL
During the winter of 1990, I wasserving as a full-time missionary
in Lérida, a city located in the SpainBarcelona Mission. My companion,Sister McKee, had become ill, and we had to stay in our apartment forseveral days. We were frustrated, espe-cially because we finally had someinvestigators who were making pro-gress and needed to be taught. We hadothers who weren’t progressing andneeded to be encouraged. We prayed
for ways to be useful during this diffi-cult time.
One morning we were readingabout the Savior, and we began toshare our feelings about Him. Sud-denly we knew how we could put ourtime to good use. We could create apresentation about the life andmission of Jesus Christ.
As we prayed for assistance, afeeling of peace came over us. Webegan to envision the illustrations
H O N A
32
we needed and to hear the wordsthat would accompany them. We feltprompted to look in specific places,and there we found phrases or paint-ings that were exactly what weneeded. We remembered issues ofthe Liahona and the Ensign where
Francisca Cristina Villar Rey is a member
of the Madrid Fourth Ward, Madrid Spain
East Stake.
“Why Are You So Different?”By Juana Rivero de González
certain pictures were printed. Weasked the members and other mis-sionaries to help us get pictures wedidn’t have. We had similar experi-ences locating music.
After working for several days, wefinished the planning part of our work.We began practicing again and againto coordinate the music with the text,so that everything would fit togetherwhen we shared the presentation.
The name for our work becameobvious. In the process of completingour project, we had come to under-stand aspects of the Savior’s mis-sion we had never been aware of.Each of us could now say with muchgreater conviction, “I know that myRedeemer lives.” That phrase becamethe title.
As soon as Sister McKee was well,we started sharing the presentationwith some of the people we wereteaching as a supplement to thediscussions. Our most spiritual ex-perience was with the Aranda family.The Arandas wouldn’t commit tobaptism even though they werepraying and reading and asking ques-tions. We decided to make a finaleffort. We would share our presenta-tion about the Savior with them.
So began one of the most unfor-gettable experiences of my mission.As we gave the presentation, SisterMcKee and I could hardly read our
parts because our emotion was sogreat. When it was over, no onedared to break the silence andinterrupt the peace that had filledthe room. Brother Aranda had hishead down. When he finally spoke,his eyes were filled with tears. “Idon’t know what it is that I amfeeling here”—he pointed to hischest—“but it is so strong, so won-derful, that I can’t express it.”
When we returned a few dayslater, the Arandas had decided to bebaptized.
Three weeks later I completed mymission and returned home to LaCoruña, Spain. The greatest bless-ings I received from serving a missionwere my increased knowledge of theSavior and my conviction that wecan be useful in the Lord’s service ifwe truly desire to do so.
Iwas converted to the gospel whenI was very young. Throughout my
youth, I held different Church call-ings, and it is impossible to describethe joy I received from them. Butone of the most remarkable experi-ences I had as a young person came
the week before my mission.L I A H O N A
34
I turned in my mission papers inJanuary 1976. After some time,which seemed very long to me, Ireceived a letter calling me to servein the México Monterrey Mission.
Because my stake president wasabout to be released, he set me aparta week before I was to leave for mymission. He cautioned me about howI would need to live now that I hadbeen set apart, but we agreed that I would continue at my job for onemore week—as I had planned. Iwanted to continue working as longas possible to earn more money formy mission and to help my family. AsI left the stake president’s home onthe Sunday evening I was set apart, Ifelt a beautiful warmth fill my entirebody.
The next morning I got up to go towork as usual. As I entered the officebuilding where I worked, I greetedthe elevator operator and told himwhich floor I wanted. The operatordid not answer but just stared at me.Then the owners of my company got on the elevator, and we greetedeach other. After the elevator doorsclosed, I noticed my bosses werestaring at me too. They asked mewhat had happened. I answered thatnothing had happened.
When I walked into the depart-ment where I worked, my coworkersstopped talking and looked at me. I
still could not understand why.
Juana Rivero de González is a member
of the Juárez Ward, México City México
Arbolillo Stake.
A Leap of FaithBy Walfre Ricardo Garrido
When the owners of the company got on the elevator, they stared
at me. They asked me what had happened.
Later that day my bosses called meinto their office. They asked me torecommend someone responsible totake my place. Then they asked why Iseemed so different. I told them aboutmy religion and my mission. Theycongratulated me and refused toaccept my resignation. They said theywould instead allow me to take leavefor a year and a half so I wouldn’t losemy job benefits. And they asked meto return to work as soon as I finishedmy mission.
As I looked at my coworkers onmy last day of work, I realized howmuch I loved them, even thoughtheir standards were very differentfrom mine. María, who worked nearme, asked, “What is happening toyou? Why are you so different?” Shesaid she could see a light in my coun-tenance. “Why is that?” she asked.
Finally I began to understand theimportance of missionary work from
a new perspective. I had been calledas a servant of the Lord, and theinfluence of the Holy Ghost wasshining through me.
I am grateful to our HeavenlyFather for that week of preparationbefore my mission. I am also gratefulfor my coworkers. They strength-ened my testimony of the gospel byletting me see the importance of mycalling through their eyes.
Iwas only 15 when I first met thefull-time missionaries—two nice
young men with something unusualin their countenances. Although Ididn’t remember much of what theysaid during the first missionary discus-sion, I couldn’t forget the good feeling
I had when I talked with them.S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 2
35
I was president of my church’slocal youth group, and I was notinterested in changing religions. Infact, when my older brother andsister decided to be baptized, I feltbetrayed. Even though I did notapprove of what they were doing, Iwent to their baptismal service tosupport them. It was hard for me toadmit, but at the baptism I felt thatgood feeling again.
As time passed, I became betterand better friends with the mission-aries. Finally, I resigned from myposition as my church’s youth grouppresident, but I still wasn’t sure Iwanted to be baptized.
Then one day one of the elderscame to my home with a wardmember. I said, “Elder, I would liketo work with you sometime.” Hereplied, “I’m sorry, but you must be amember of the Church before youcan be a missionary.”
Several days later I picked up thepamphlets the elders had left at myhome. Reading them one by one, Ilooked up the Bible and Book ofMormon scriptures they referred to.Then, putting Moroni’s promise tothe test, I prayed to know if the Bookof Mormon was true. The Spirittestified to me that it indeed wastrue, and six months after meetingthe missionaries, I was baptized.
The first thing I did after my
baptism was ask the missionaries if
Walfre Ricardo Garrido is a member of
the Atiquizaya Ward, Atiquizaya El Salvador
Stake.
The Home TeachersWho Wouldn’tQuitBy David Head
I could work with them now. “Youmust wait until you receive theAaronic Priesthood,” they replied.Two weeks later I did receive thepriesthood. That same day, I wentout with the elders. And as I walkedalong with them, I decided thatsomeday I too would be a full-timemissionary.
For the next several years, Ienjoyed all the blessings Latter-daySaint youth have. I attended seminaryand Young Men activities, blessed andpassed the sacrament, and eventuallyreceived the Melchizedek Priesthood.Unfortunately, my mother opposedmy Church activity, protesting that Ispent too much time at church. WhenI turned 19 and began to fill out mymission papers, my mother asked meto stop. I decided to respect her wishesand to serve the Lord in whateverother ways I could.
For the next four years, I served as stake clerk, giving my might, mind,and strength to my duties. And Ioften worked with the full-time mis-sionaries. I dreamed of someday be-coming a full-time missionary.
In time, I was called to teachseminary. This opportunity, alongwith my stake calling, kept me busyenough to feel that at least I wasserving the Lord—even though I wasnot on a mission.
Then one day my sister came to
visit with her two beautiful littledaughters. It was one month beforemy 24th birthday. Time was runningout, and I knew I needed to decidewhat I was going to do with my life.That day one of my nieces fell asleepin my arms. As I watched her sleep Irealized that someday I would havechildren and they would ask me,“Daddy, why didn’t you go on amission?” At that moment I mademy decision.
My decision was not easy for mymother to accept. She and my fatherwere separated, and I was the onlychild at home with her. Still, I knewthat what I was doing was right, so I filled out my papers and sentthem in. When my call to serve inthe Honduras Comayaguela Missioncame, my mother was so upset shebecame ill. But in time, she began toaccept my decision, and she evenhelped me prepare to leave.
On the day I left for the Mis-sionary Training Center, I gave mymother a priesthood blessing. Andas I served I began to understandthe Lord’s promise: “I, the Lord, ambound when ye do what I say”(D&C 82:10). How great was myjoy when the calling I had so longdreamed of holding was finallymine—that of full-time representa-tive of the Lord and His Church.How great was my joy when oneyear into my mission I received
word that my mother had acceptedL I A H O N A
36
the truth and had been baptized.How grateful I am that I took a leapof faith.
A year after my wife, Anthea,and I joined the Church in
1965, we were sealed with our twosmall daughters in the LondonEngland Temple.
At that time the Church inBritain had only one stake. Becausethere was a great need for priesthoodleadership, I was soon called to serveas a branch president in a town 15miles (25 kilometers) away from myhome branch. I welcomed the chal-lenge this new calling brought andeventually served in the districtpresidency and then in the bishopricwhen our branch became a ward.
As our family grew in the gospel,the sales management position I heldbecame more and more demanding,often requiring me to be away fromhome two or three nights a week. Ialso had found some new friends notof our faith who caused me to startto have doubts about some aspects of
Church doctrine.
Upon returning home, I found our home teachers had already
assembled the shed.
I enjoyed discussions with thesenew intellectual friends. They triedto use the scriptures to prove thatthe Church was not following somebasic concepts given as command-ments since the time of Adam. Ishould have borne testimony of therestored gospel and turned away.Instead, I began to listen to them,and my little doubts about doctrinestarted to grow. Soon I stoppedpaying tithing and going to thetemple. When I stopped attendingchurch, my wife protested, as did ourdaughters when we ceased holdingfamily home evening.
During this time, two peoplefrom the Church never gave up onme. Our home teachers invited meto church every Sunday, sometimesin person and other times by a
phone call. They visited our homeat least once and sometimes twiceeach month. They even knew whenwe needed something. I especiallyremember the time I ordered agarden shed that was deliveredunassembled during my absence.Upon returning home, I found ourhome teachers had already assem-bled the shed.
I particularly admired our seniorhome teacher, Des Gorman, an IrishCanadian. He was a genuine personwho truly cared for people. To me herepresented the Church, and I feltthe Church must be a good organiza-tion, even if I wasn’t attending.
Eventually we were blessed with a baby boy. Our home teachersreminded me that it is a priesthoodpractice to name and bless a baby atfast and testimony meeting. I did not
want to participate, though I finallyS E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 2
37
agreed to allow our baby to beblessed by others.
Brother Gorman stood in myplace and was the mouthpiece for abeautiful blessing on our son, Ronan.As I listened I received a powerfulwitness from the Spirit. I had beenproud. I had made some bigmistakes. I had nearly lost my testi-mony of the truthfulness of therestored gospel. I still had my family,but I had almost lost the sweet peacethe gospel brings. Many tears flowedwhile my wife, Brother Gorman, andthe bishopric supported me as Irepented.
From that time on I have beenactive in the Church. Our hometeachers have continued to supportme. Our baby boy is now a returnedmissionary, married in the temple,and raising a family of his own. I feelhis life is a tribute to the man whogave him a name and a blessing.
I shall ever be grateful to twodedicated home teachers who tooktheir assignment seriously. AlthoughBrother Gorman has been deceasedfor some years, I know I won’t forgethim or his patient consistency ininviting me back. He never gave up.
Today I seek to emulate his quietand loving persistence in my ownhome teaching and other Churchcallings. �
David Head is a member of the Worcester
Ward, Cheltenham England Stake.
Putting the Student into Action
How to IncreaseParticipation in Lessons
When class members get involved, effective teaching can happen.
By Jonn D. Claybaugh and Amber Barlow Dahl
ILLU
STRA
TIO
NS
BY G
REG
NEW
BOLD
A stake leader was teachingthe elders quorum lessonin ward conference. He
had obviously spent a good deal oftime and effort in preparing, and hespoke with sincerity. But quorummembers were inattentive; someeven fidgeted restlessly. Why? Afterthe closing prayer, as the teacherthought about his lesson, he real-ized that instead of involving hisstudents, he had just given a verylong talk.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of theQuorum of the Twelve Apostlesrecently emphasized the need forChurch members to improve theirgospel teaching: “Now, at a timewhen our prophet is calling for morefaith through hearing the word ofGod, we must revitalize and re-enthrone superior teaching in the
Church” (“ ‘A Teacher Come fromGod,’ ” Ensign, May 1998, 25).
WHAT IS EFFECTIVEGOSPEL TEACHING?
The role of a gospel teacher “is to help individuals take responsibilityfor learning the gospel—to awaken inthem the desire to study, understand,and live the gospel and to show themhow to do so” (Teaching, No GreaterCall [1999], 61).
“The learning has to be done bythe pupil. Therefore it is the pupil whohas to be put into action” (Asahel D.Woodruff, Teaching the Gospel [1962],37). Successful teachers focus less on imparting what they know andfocus more on helping class members
L I A H O N A
38
develop their own desires to seekknowledge and inspiration.
At home and in Church classroomswe are less effective when we try to“pour” knowledge and growth intoothers. In sacrament meetings, con-ferences, and other formal settings,speakers do not usually invite partici-pation. But in classrooms, we canfollow the model established by theLord’s instructions for the School ofthe Prophets: “Appoint among your-selves a teacher, and let not all be spokesmen at once; but let onespeak at a time and let all listen untohis sayings, that when all have spoken that all may be edified of all, and thatevery man may have an equal privilege”(D&C 88:122; emphasis added).
What then are some ways we canhelp students take an active part ingospel lessons?
The amount ofmaterial coveredis less importantthan helping eachclass member feel
the influence ofthe Spirit.
1. TALK LESSTeachers who speak for 90
percent of class time are probablytalking too much. Of course, as theteacher you will need to give ex-planations, instructions, examples,stories, testimonies, and so forth, but speaking should be part of yourplan for promoting participation. Inan effective lesson, students mightspeak for 40 to 60 percent of thetime. This approach will help youavoid being just a lecturer or thedispenser of information. Instead,
you can be a facilitator—helpingstudents learn from the scriptures,from other students, and from theSpirit. Of course, you will need tointroduce the lesson and help laysome groundwork and, at the end ofclass, clarify and summarize thedoctrine taught. However, you willwant to be careful not to take a greatdeal of time doing this.
One Sunday School teacherprepared a lesson on Doctrine andCovenants 135–37. However, inclass the students became involvedin a wonderful discussion aboutprinciples in section 135. As manyclass members shared insights, experiences, and testimonies, classtime quickly ran out. The teacherwas initially frustrated but then real-ized it was the students’ participa-tion that had made the lessonsuccessful.
“Teachers should be careful notto end a good discussion prema-turely in an attempt to cover all
the material they have prepared.What matters most is not the amountof material covered but that classmembers feel the influence of the
Spirit, increase their under-standing of the gospel,learn to apply gospelprinciples in their lives,and strengthen their
commitment to live the gospel”(“Gospel Teaching and Leadership,”Church Handbook of Instructions, Book2: Priesthood and Auxiliary Leaders[1998], 304).
2. ASK EFFECTIVE QUESTIONS
To begin the class, you might havea class member read a scripturepassage or a quote from the lessonmaterial. Then you might ask ques-tions that elicit meaningful responses.Questions that require only a “yes” or“no” answer, questions that most classmembers know the answer to, andquestions that require students toguess what you are thinking willusually not encourage participationand meaningful responses. Instead,
S E P T E M
you could ask questionssuch as:
■ What do these versesmean to you?
■ What gospel prin-ciples do you see inverses . . . ?■ How does _________
help you understand . . . ?■ What would you under-
line or mark in these verses?Why?■ How would you say this in your
own words?■ What are some conclusions we
can draw from this?■ How can we apply this in our
lives?■ What comments or feelings do
you have about this?■ Would anyone like to share a
testimony of or an experience withthis principle?
Here are some examples of possiblequestions for teaching 1 Nephi 16:
■ How did each member of Lehi’sfamily feel when Nephi broke hisbow?
■ Which verses indicate Nephi’sfeelings?
■ Would someone tell about achallenge or affliction that broughtspiritual growth?
■ Which verse in this chapter doyou like best? Why?
B E R 2 0 0 2
41
PARTICIPATION LEADS TO GROWTH
T he more class members read theirscriptural reading assignments, the
more they bring their scriptures to class, andthe more they discuss what the gospelactually means in their lives, the more willbe their inspiration, growth, and joy asthey try to solve their personal concerns andchallenges.”—Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles(“Teaching by the Spirit,” Ensign, January1989, 15) �
Effective gospelteachers are
humble, willing to give up
the spotlight and let class
members have an important role.
Be sure to give students time tothink about and respond to yourquestions or invitations to partici-pate. You could let class membersknow that the silence does not needto be uncomfortable by saying some-thing like, “We’ll take a few secondsto think about this, and whensomeone is ready to respond, pleaseraise your hand.” If you are comfort-able with the silence, the classmembers will be also. Teachersshould not pressure class members totell about personal experiences orfeelings if they do not freely volun-teer. Some experiences may be toosacred to share.
3. GIVE POSITIVE FEEDBACK
“You can help those you teachfeel more confident about theirability to participate in a discussionif you respond positively to everysincere comment” (Teaching, NoGreater Call, 64). Teachers shouldnot ridicule or criticize any ques-tions, comments, feelings, experi-ences, or testimonies. They shouldshow courtesy and love and dotheir best to encourage helpfulparticipation. You can help yourstudents feel that their contribu-tions are valued and that theirparticipation is important, even
L I A
if sometimes you must kindly clarifydoctrinal misunderstandings. Keepin mind that students are takingsocial, emotional, and spiritual risks when sharing personal in-sights. They will hesitate to shareagain if they do not receive positivefeedback.
Don’t be overly concerned if a stu-dent’s comment seems to be takingthe lesson in a direction you did notintend. If a comment is not helpfulto the progression of the lesson, youcan simply respond positively to thecomment, introduce a new topic,and ask again for participation.Some ways to respond to classmembers’ comments are:
■ Thank you for that comment.■ I like the way you put that!■ Thank you for sharing your
feelings.You can also encourage more
participation by saying:■ That is a good question. Who
would like to respond to it?■ That’s interesting. Please explain
more about what you mean.■ How did you come to feel that
way?If a class member states some-
thing that is inappropriate or in-correct, you might want to say:
■ Thank you. The principle I wantyou to think about is . . .
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■ I’ve heard that too, yet myunderstanding is . . .
You may have one or two classmembers who seem always willing toanswer questions or make comments.Be grateful for their willingness toparticipate. But President Howard W.Hunter (1907–95) counseled: “Donot fall into the trap that some of usfall into by calling on the ones whoare always so bright and eager andready with the right answer. Lookand probe for those who are hangingback, who are shy and retiring andperhaps troubled in spirit” (EternalInvestments [address to Church Edu-cational System instructors, 10 Feb-ruary 1989], 4). Teachers should not,however, pressure or force partici-pation from students who, for what-ever reason, prefer not to respond.And teachers should not embarrass
S E P T E M
or make class members uncom-fortable while attempting to
involve everyone.
THE JOY OF GOSPELTEACHINGEffective gospel teachers
are humble, willing to give upthe spotlight and let class members
have an important role. SisterVirginia H. Pearce, who served asfirst counselor in the Young Womengeneral presidency, said: “The skilledteacher does not want students wholeave the class talking about howmagnificent and unusual the teacheris. This teacher wants students wholeave talking about how magnificentthe gospel is!” (“The OrdinaryClassroom—a Powerful Place forSteady and Continued Growth,”Ensign, November 1996, 12).
The gospel of Jesus Christ truly ismagnificent, and we can strive to letthat magnificence shine through as we use the knowledge, feelings,ideas, experiences, and testimoniesof all class members. Through effec-tive gospel teaching “all may beedified of all.” �
Jonn D. Claybaugh is president of the
Costa Rica San José Mission. Amber Barlow
Dahl is a member of the Centennial Ward,
Eagle Idaho Stake.
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TEACH STUDENTS, NOT JUST LESSONS
A gospel teacher does not focus on himself or herself. One who
understands that principle will not lookupon his or her calling as ‘giving orpresenting a lesson,’ because that definitionviews teaching from the standpoint of theteacher, not the student.”—Elder Dallin H.Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles(“Gospel Teaching,” Liahona, January2000, 96) �
LATTER-DAY PROPHETS SPEAKABOUT GOSPEL
TEACHING
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DAVID O. MCKAY (1873–1970),
NINTH PRESIDENT OF THE CHURCH
“That leader or teacher fails in thework assigned if the leader or teacherdirects the love of the member only tothe personality of the leader or teacher.
It is the leader’s duty, or the teacher’s duty, to teach themember to love—not the leader or teacher, but the truthof the gospel. Always, everywhere, we find Christ losinghimself for his Father’s will; and so also should ourleaders and teachers, so far as their personalities areconcerned, lose themselves for the truth he desires tohave them teach.
“When the people came to Jesus and asked for bread,or the truth, he never turned them away with a stone. Healways had truth to give. He understood it. It radiatedfrom his being. He understood how to use illustrations,the natural things around him, to impress that truthupon his hearers. In other words, he was filled with hissubject and then was enabled to give that subject to his
S E P T E M
hearers. It is not always what you say, but what you are
that influences children, the young, or that influencesyour associates. ‘What you are,’ said [Ralph WaldoEmerson,] the alleged wisest of Americans, ‘thunders soloud in my ears I cannot hear what you say’ ” (inConference Report, October 1968, 143–44).
SPENCER W. KIMBALL (1895–1985),
TWELFTH PRESIDENT OF THE CHURCH
“We were driving north on anOklahoma highway and noted the after-noon sun going out of sight behind theclouds. The grayness got deeper and
more ominous. We said, ‘It looks like a storm brewing.’As darkness increased and the winds began to howl, wesaid, ‘This storm will be violent.’ As it broke with all itshellish fury, we said, ‘This rain and wind have become araging whirlwind.’
“These are turbulent times. The newspapers give frontpage to ever-increasing acts of violence, and magazinesdevote pages to the growing menace. . . .
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“Can it be arrested? Can we turn the tide and bring
P: P
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back decency and order out of chaos? The answer isyes—a positive, stentorian yes. But the solution is noteasy. . . .
“Home life, home teaching, parental guidance [are]the panacea for all the ailments, a cure for all diseases, aremedy for all problems. . . .
“Oh, my brothers and sisters, the sons and daughtersof God, the members of Christ’s Church, the people of allreligious affiliations, the people of all nations, let us takehold of this general panacea and heal our wounds andimmunize our children against evil by the simple processof teaching and training them in the way of the Lord.Every father and mother in Zion, and every Catholic,Protestant, Jewish, Mohammedan, and all other parentshave the same responsibility: to teach their children topray and walk uprightly before the Lord!” (in ConferenceReport, April 1965, 60–65).
HOWARD W. HUNTER (1907–95),
FOURTEENTH PRESIDENT OF THE CHURCH
“Let me take just a moment tomention a little incident that made animpression upon me when I was a boy. . . .
“It was on a summer day early in themorning. I was standing near the window. The curtainsobstructed me from two little creatures out on the lawn.One was a large bird and the other a little bird, obviouslyjust out of the nest. I saw the larger bird hop out on the
lawn, then thump hisfeet and cock his
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head. He drew a big fat wormout of the lawn and camehopping back. The littlebird opened its bill wide, but the big bird swallowed theworm.
“Then I saw the big bird fly up into a tree. He peckedat the bark for a little while and came back with a bigbug in his mouth. The little bird opened his beak wide,but the big bird swallowed the bug. There wassquawking in protest.
“The big bird flew away, and I didn’t see it again, butI watched the little bird. After a while, the little birdhopped out on the lawn, thumped its feet, cocked itshead, and pulled a big worm out of the lawn.
“God bless the good people who teach our childrenand our youth” (“A Teacher,” Ensign, July 1972, 85).
GORDON B. HINCKLEY (1910–),
FIFTEENTH PRESIDENT OF THE CHURCH
“To all who hold positions of leader-ship, to the vast corps of teachers andmissionaries, to heads of families, Ishould like to make a plea: In all you do,
feed the spirit—nourish the soul. . . .“I am satisfied that the world is starved for spiritual
food. Amos prophesied of old: ‘Behold, the days come,saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land,not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but ofhearing the words of the Lord:
“ ‘And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from thenorth even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seekthe word of the Lord, and shall not find it.
“ ‘In that day shall the fair virgins and the young menfaint for thirst.’ (Amos 8:11–13.)
“There is hunger in the land, and a genuine thirst—agreat hunger for the word of the Lord and an unsatisfied
thirst for things of the spirit. Ours is the obligation andthe opportunity to nourish the soul” (in Conference
Report, October 1967, 89–90). �H O N A
46
L J
D i d Y o u K n o w ?
“WHATE’ER THOU ART, ACT WELL
THY PART”
In 1898 David O. McKay (1873–1970), who later became the ninthPresident of the Church, was ahomesick missionary in Scotland. He
had been in the city of Stirling only a few weeks and was discouraged. He and his companion spent onemorning walking around StirlingCastle. On the way back into townthey noticed an unfinished building.“Over the front door,” PresidentMcKay later explained, “was a stonearch, something unusual in a resi-dence, and what was still moreunusual, I could see from the side-walk that there was an inscriptionchiseled in that arch.
“I said to my companion: ‘That’sunusual! I am going to see what the
inscription is.’ When I approachednear enough, this message came tome, not only in stone, but as if itcame from One in whose service wewere engaged:
“ ‘Whate’er Thou Art, Act WellThy Part’ ” (in Conference Report,October 1956, 91).
The message the young elderreceived that morning was to act hispart well as a missionary of TheChurch of Jesus Christ of Latter-daySaints. It was also a messagePresident McKay lived and taughtthroughout a lifetime of service.
IT HAPPENED IN SEPTEMBER
Following are a few significant events that happened inChurch history during the month of September.
21–22 September 1823: The angel Moroni appearedto Joseph Smith, teaching him of the existence of anancient record from which Joseph would later trans-late the Book of Mormon.
22 September 1827: Joseph Smith received the goldplates from the angel Moroni at the Hill Cumorahnear Joseph’s home in Palmyra, New York.
9 September 1850: The United States Congresscreated the Territory of Utah. On 20 SeptemberBrigham Young was appointed governor of the territory.
2 September 1898: President Wilford Woodruff died at age 91 in San Francisco, California, and on 13 September of the same year Lorenzo Snow becamethe fifth President of the Church.
LEADERSHIP TIP
Sometimes people calledto leadership positions areunsure of their own abilities.They may compare them-selves to others—even tothose they have been called to serve—and findthemselves wanting.
Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of theTwelve Apostles reminds us that we don’t haveto compare ourselves with anyone else. The Lordasks us simply to do what we can do. “The onlything you need to worry about,” Elder Wirthlinsays, “is striving to be the best you can be. Andhow do you do that? You keep your eye on thegoals that matter most in life, and you movetowards them step by step” (“One Step afterAnother,” Liahona, January 2002, 29). �
TOPICS IN THIS ISSUEF=The FriendActivation .......................................32Adversity...............................2, 10, 22Church history ................................47Conversion .................26, 32, F8, F10Education ..................................16, 25Example ....................................14, F4Faith........................................32, F10Family home evening.......................48Gratitude.........................................16Home teaching............................8, 32Humility..........................................16Jesus Christ.......2, 10, 32, F2, F12, F14Leadership...........................26, 47, 48Love ................................................10Miracles.........................................F14Missionary work........26, 32, F4, F6, F8New Testament Stories .........F12, F14Obedience .....................................F10Old Testament...................................9Patience.............................................2Prayer....................................9, 16, 26Priesthood blessings ........................22Primary ...........................................F4Prophets ....................................16, 44Sacrifice ........................................F12Scripture study ............................9, 26Service ..................................2, 14, 32Standards.........................................16Sustaining........................................10Teaching........................25, 38, 44, 48Temples and temple work .........14, F4Tithing ............................................F2Truth ...............................................16 Unity .............................................F10Visiting teaching..............................25Word of Wisdom .............................16.
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Using the September 2002 Liahona
DISCUSSION IDEAS■ “Patience, a Heavenly Virtue,” page 2: President Thomas S.Monson tells of the Saints in the German Democratic Republic whopatiently endured. Has the Lord given you promises, perhaps in yourpatriarchal blessing, that you are waiting to see fulfilled? How can youdevelop patience and faith like the Saints in Germany?
■ “ ‘He Loved Them unto the End,’” page 10: Elder Jeffrey R.Holland explains that one thing will never fail us: the pure love ofChrist. How can you draw on this unfailing source of spiritual suste-nance and support?
■ “My Friend and Fellow Servant: The Example of Luan Felix daSilva,” page 14: Are we often so tied up in our own troubles that we failto reach out to those who need us? How can you be more like LuanFelix da Silva in concentrating on the needs of others?
■ “Opening the Windows of Heaven,” page F2: President James E.Faust’s grandfather gave the best of his farm’s produce as tithing. Howcan we exhibit that same spirit today, even though we pay tithing withmoney?
CALL FOR FAMILY HOME EVENING EXPERIENCES
We invite you to share with us an account of your most successfulfamily home evening. Tell us what you did and what made it effective.Send your ideas, stories, and accounts to Family Home EveningExperiences, Liahona, Floor 24, 50 East North Temple Street, Salt LakeCity, UT 84150-3223, USA; or e-mail to [email protected]. Please include your complete name, address, telephone number, andward and stake (or branch and district).
PHOTOGRAPH BY KELLY LARSEN
TheFriendFOR CHILDREN OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS ■ SEPTEMBER 2002
Openı̇ng theWı̇ndowsof Heaven
COME LISTEN TO A PROPHET’S VOICE
Tithing is a principle of sacrifice and a key
to opening the windows of heaven.
By President James E. FaustSecond Counselor in the First Presidency
As a boy, I learned a great lesson offaith and sacrifice as I worked on mygrandfather’s farm during the terribleeconomic depression of the 1930s.
The taxes on the farm were unpaid, and Grandfather,like so many, had no money. There was a drought inthe land, and some cows and horses were dying for lackof grass and hay.
One day when we were harvesting what little haythere was in the field, Grandfather told us to take thewagon to the corner of the field where the best haywas, fill the wagon as full as we could, and take it tothe tithing yard as payment of his tithing.
I wondered how Grandfather could use the hay to pay tithing when some of the cows that we weredepending upon to sustain us might starve. I evenquestioned if the Lord expected that much sacrifice.Ultimately I marveled at his great faith that somehowthe Lord would provide. The legacy of faith he passedon to his posterity was far greater than money, becausehe established in the minds of his children and
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grandchildren that he loved the Lord and His holywork more than earthly things. Grandfathernever became wealthy, but he died atpeace with the Lord and withhimself.
The law of tithing is simple:we pay one-tenth of our individual increase. Ourincrease is our income. Thisprinciple is fundamental tothe personal happiness ofChurch members world-wide, both rich and
poor. Tithing is a principle of sacrifice and a key toopening the windows of heaven.
The ultimate offering was thatoffered by the Savior Himself in
giving His very life. It causes eachof us to wonder, “How many
drops of blood were shed forme?” I witness that Jesus is theChrist, the healer of our souls,the Savior and Redeemer ofmankind. �
From an October 1998 general
conference address.
ELECTRONICALLY COMPOSED BY CLAUDIA E. WARNER
“The Field Is White Already to Harvest”
By Vicki F. Matsumori
SHARING TIME
“He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them,
he it is that loveth me” (John 14:21).
§In some parts of the world, it is harvest-time now. Green vegetables, juicy fruits,and healthy grains are ripe and ready for
harvesting. Farmers work hard so everything can begathered and nothing is lost.
The Lord has said that “the field is white already toharvest” (D&C 4:4). His harvest is humble people whoare ready to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Missionarieswork hard to find and teach as many of these people aspossible.
President Gordon B. Hinckley has asked us to help.He said: “I wish I could awaken in the heart of everyman, woman, boy, and girl . . . the great consumingdesire to share the gospel with others. If you do that,you live better, you try to make your lives more exem-plary because you know that those you teach would notbelieve unless you back up what you say by the good-ness of your lives” (regional conference, Anchorage,Alaska, 18 June 1995).
When you try to live a better life, you obey theprophet’s counsel. You also show that you loveHeavenly Father and Jesus Christ. You prepare to go tothe temple and to serve a mission. You are exemplary,which means you are a wonderful example.
It is harvesttime. Like the farmer or the full-timemissionary, you can see the fruits of your labor. What isyour harvest? Others have noticed your good exampleand want to come to church. And Heavenly Father ispleased because you have shown your love by keepingHis commandments. As you continue to keep thecommandments, you will continue to have harvests.
T H E
Sharing Time Ideas
1. Explain the importance of keeping the Sabbath dayholy by having the children role-play the gathering of manna(see Exodus 16:11–31). Then read D&C 59:9–15, andmake a list of good things to do on the Sabbath. Discuss thelist, and add other ideas such as read the scriptures andwrite to missionaries. Ask the children to listen for promisedblessings as you read D&C 59:16–19. Sing a song or hymnabout the Sabbath. To review, have the children sit in acircle and establish a rhythm by lightly tapping their handson their laps two times, clapping their hands two times, thensnapping their fingers two times. When they snap theirfingers, have a child say something good to do on theSabbath. Continue around the circle, allowing children toadd to the list of good things to do.
2. Read Articles of Faith 1:5, and explain that bishopsare called of God. Then read Titus 1:7–9, and have thechildren list the qualities of a bishop. Explain that wehonor priesthood leaders by using their correct titles. Writethe offices listed in Articles of Faith 1:6 on the chalkboard:apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists. Write the following titles on separate pieces of paper: Elder,President, Bishop, Brother, and Patriarch. Place the titlesin random order on the chalkboard. Read Articles of Faith1:6. As you get to each office, stop and have a child matchthe correct title to the office. Apostles are addressed as“Elder.” The prophet is called “President” because he is thePresident of the Church. A pastor is now called “Bishop.”“Teacher” refers to someone who holds that priesthoodoffice; he is called “Brother.” The Prophet Joseph Smithexplained that evangelists are our patriarchs. Write a letterto your bishop or branch president and thank him for hisservice. Have the children sign their names or drawpictures of themselves. �
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Instructions
Can you find the bicycle, bucket, button, coveralls, hoe, journal, needle and thread, packet ofseeds, piggy bank, rake, scriptures, watering can, temple recommend, and work boot hidden in this
picture? As you find them, color with one color the objects a farmer would use. With a differentcolor, color the objects you can use to prepare for a full-time mission.
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������������������������������������FOR LITTLE FRIENDS
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������������������������������A story for you to tell
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By Craig E. MooreA true storySandy’s Missionary Chart
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Iam a member of the Churchbecause of a five-year-old member missionary.
When I was young, my mother was searchingfor a church to answer all her questions. We attended adifferent church each week, but none of them satisfiedMom. Finally she gave up.
My best friend at the time was Sandy Guthrie. Weplayed together nearly every day. One Saturday eveningshe asked me if I would like to attend church with herthe next day. I asked her which church she belonged to,thinking I had visited them all. She told me it was TheChurch of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
It was a church I had not attended, and I agreed togo. Unfortunately, when I asked Mom, she said she hadother plans that Sunday.
The next week Sandy invited me again, and onceagain I asked Mom. She had another excuse, and Iwasn’t allowed to go.
Being a good missionary, Sandy didn’t give up. Shesuggested I get up on Sunday morning and get ready bymyself before asking my mother if I could go. I thoughtit was a great idea. If Mom didn’t have to make aspecial effort to help me get ready, she might be morewilling to let me go.
On Sunday morning I put on my best clothes andwoke up Mom. This time she flatly refused. She offeredno excuse and left no room for bargaining. She simply
T H E
said no. So I did what most five-year-olds would do. I cried.
I suppose the tears and my desire and determinationtouched my mother, because she agreed to let me go onthe condition that she go with me.
Mom and I attended church with Sandy and herfamily that morning. Mom felt the Spirit very stronglyand knew immediately we had found the true Church.That evening the missionaries taught her the firstdiscussion, and she agreed to be baptized.
More than 20 years have passed since then. When I tell my own two children this story, I draw a chartshowing everyone who joined the Church becauseSandy invited me to come with her. There are morethan 100 people on the chart. Many of them, like me,not only accepted the gospel but also served full-timemissions and helped bring others to the knowledge ofthe truth. The chart proves that one child’s dedicationto sharing the gospel can bless the lives of manypeople.
I don’t know how many others Sandy invited tochurch or how large her complete chart might be. I do know that I am more grateful to her than I can say. I also know I can’t repay her. But I can follow herexample and share the gospel whenever and whereverpossible—just in case I meet another family looking forthe truth. �
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2.
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1. Sandy Guthrie
2. Craig Moore
3. Craig’s mother, Marilyn Moore
Elder Athos M. AmorimOf the Seventy
FRIEND TO FRIEND
From an interview by Jan Pinborough
Let me tell you how I got my unusualfirst name. My parents wanted theirchildren to be unified, so they namedus for the three main characters in afamous book, The Three Musketeers.This is a book about the adventures
of three friends whose motto was “One for all, all forone.” My older brother’s name is Aramis, my youngerbrother’s name is Dartagnan, and my name is Athos.Each of us is very different from the others, yet we havealways been very close.
When I was about 10, my older brother had a serioushealth problem. The blood in his hands was not circu-lating properly, and they hurt very badly. At that time,my family lived in asmall town on the
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border of Brazil and Argentina. The medical facilitiesthere were not very good, so my mother and my brothertraveled to the big city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to seethe doctor. Because my father had to work during theday, my baby brother had to stay with another family. Soevery day I went to visit him. And every day I prayed formy older brother.
The doctors told my mother they needed to amputate(cut off) my brother’s hands. Mother refused. “No, I knowthe Lord will take care of my son,” she said. One nightafter my mother and brother had returned home, he wasin great pain. I shared a room with him, and I rememberhim crying because his hands hurt so much. While hecried, Mother knelt by his bed, praying. The nextmorning, I saw him sleeping peacefully. Mother was alsoasleep, still kneeling at his bedside. We were not membersof The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, butMother had great faith. Eventually my brother’s hands didget better. He lost the tips of some of his fingers, but hedid not have to have his hands amputated.
Mother also had great courage. And she taught us tobe of good cheer. She told my brother that even thoughhe had lost part of some fingers, he still had everythingelse. So my brother did not get discouraged. His first jobwas as a typist. Today he is an attorney.
It is very important to be unified with your brothersand sisters and parents.
Also, when you belong to the Church, you are amember of a big family. And we must be unified.
Remember the motto of the ThreeMusketeers: “One for all, allfor one.”
It is also very important foryou to obey your parents. Ihad an experience that
Above: With his family in Brazil.
Left: At age three (left) with his brother
Aramis, age four. Right: With his wife,
Maria, as newlyweds.
taught me the importance of obedience. I love horses,and I love to train them to jump. As a young man, Iwas invited to compete in the Pan-American Games,which are something like the Olympic Games for thecountries of North, Central, and South America. Fortwo years I worked very hard to train for this competi-tion. Then one day not long before the games, Idisobeyed my coach. I had just finished my trainingsession, and he had told me it was time to stop. But Idecided to make a few more jumps. As I did, I fell withmy horse and was seriously injured. After all my hardwork, I was not able to take part in the competition.We must all learn to be obedient to our trainers—ourparents, our leaders, and our teachers. They know howto help us avoid dangers and problems.
Working with horses also taught me to be patientand never to give up. Progress comes a little at a time.Once I had a colt named Planchet. Someone said,“That horse is weak. He will never be worth anything.”But someone else told me if I would be patient andexercise my colt’s muscles, he would someday be a goodhorse. I fed Planchet and took care of him andloved him. For one whole year, I walked him tostrengthen his muscles. I worked and workedwith him. And, sure enough, this weak coltwon the Brazilian championship in a three-daycompetition.
You may think you are weak now. But nevergive up. One day you can be strong. But youmust be patient in doing simple things. Pray tothe Lord. Study the scriptures a little bit each day.Love and obey your parents. Love and serve your familyand friends.
One of the most important days of my life was theday I was baptized. I was 40 years old. The missionaries
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had knocked on my family’s door in Brazil. Whenever Iread in the Book of Mormon about the sons of Mosiah,who were such powerful missionaries, I think of ElderHansen and Elder Furness. They were well groomed, soit was easy for us to invite them into our home. Theywere well educated and polite. They had beautifulsmiles and a good spirit with them. I love those mission-aries who taught me to know the Lord. After I wasbaptized, they placed their hands on my head toconfirm me. I cried a lot because I had never had sucha wonderful feeling. And I have had this samewonderful feeling ever since.
One of the most important times of my life was whenmy wife and I were serving in the São Paulo BrazilTemple. We could feel the presence of the Lord in Hishouse. Whenever I saw families being sealed, I couldfeel how much the Lord loves His children. �
Jesus loved the young man. Wanting to help him, Jesustold him he needed to do one more thing—sell every-thing he had and give the money to the poor, thenfollow Him. If the young man did that, he could go to heaven.
Mark 10:21
The Savior told him to obey God’s commandments, tolove and honor his father and mother, and not to killanyone or lie or steal. The rich young man said he hadalways obeyed those commandments.
Mark 10:18–20
THE RICHYOUNG MAN
NEW TESTAMENT STORIES
One day a very rich young man came to Jesus andasked Him what he should do to go to heaven.
Mark 10:17
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The rich young man did not want to give away everything he had. He loved his possessions more than he lovedGod. The young man left sad.
Mark 10:22
The Savior told His disciples that it is hard for those who love riches to go to heaven. Not understanding, theyasked who can live with God. Jesus said that people who love God with all their hearts can live with Him in heaven.
Mark 10:23, 26, 29–30
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The Savior asked His disciples to go with Him to helpLazarus. The disciples were afraid to go to Bethany. Itwas near Jerusalem, and some of the people therewanted to kill Jesus. The disciples did not want Him togo near Jerusalem again.
John 11:6–8
Lazarus became very sick while the Savior wasteaching in another town. Mary and Martha sent wordto Jesus that Lazarus was sick.
John 11:3
T H E F R I E N D
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JESUS BRINGSLAZARUSBACK TO LIFE
NEW TESTAMENT STORIES
A man named Lazarus lived in Bethany with hissisters, Mary and Martha. Jesus loved Lazarus and his sisters, and they loved Jesus very much.
John 11:1–2, 5
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 2
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Lazarus had been dead for four days. When Jesus came,Martha told Him that Lazarus would not have died ifHe had been there. Jesus told Martha that Lazaruswould live again and asked Martha if she believed Him.Martha said yes. She knew Jesus was the Savior.
John 11:17–27
Jesus told His disciples that Lazarus was dead and thatHe would bring him back to life. His miracle wouldhelp the disciples know that He was the Savior. Jesuswent to Bethany.
John 11:11–17
Then Martha left Jesus to get her sister, Mary. Mary went to meet Jesus too. Many people went with her. She knelt,crying, at the Savior’s feet. The people with her were also crying. Jesus cried. The people knew He loved Lazarusvery much.
John 11:28–36
T H E F R I E N D
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Looking up, He thanked Heavenly Father for hearingHis prayers. Jesus asked Heavenly Father to help thepeople believe He was the Savior.
John 11:41–42
Jesus went to the cave where Lazarus was buried.There was a stone in front of it, and He told thepeople to move the stone.
John 11:38–39
Then, in a loud voice, Jesus told Lazarus to come out of the cave. Lazarus, alive again, came out. The people sawthe miracle, and many knew Jesus was the Savior.
John 11:43–45
The Taking of Jericho, by Frank Adams“So the people shouted when the priests blew with the trumpets: and . . . the wall fell down flat,
so that the people went up into the city, . . . and they took the city” (Joshua 6:20).
“It is the leader’s duty, or the teacher’s duty,
to teach the member to love—not the leader
or teacher, but the truth of the gospel.
Always, everywhere, we find Christ losing
himself for his Father’s will; and so also
should our leaders and teachers, so far as their
personalities are concerned, lose themselves
for the truth he desires to have them teach.”
See President David O. McKay,
“Latter-day Prophets Speak about
Gospel Teaching,” page 44.
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