T H E E N S I G N O F T H E C H U R C H O F J E S U S C H R I S T O F L AT T E R - D AY S A I N T S • D E C E M B E R 2 0 13

Born to Set Us
Free, pp. 16, 20
The Blessings of
Interfaith Service, p. 28
75th Anniversary of
Deseret Industries, p. 48
Parallels between the Life
of Joseph Smith and the
Articles of Faith, p. 70
“When I saw Joseph
Smith, he took
heaven, figuratively
speaking, and
brought it down to
earth; and he took
the earth, brought
it up, and opened
up, in plainness
and simplicity, the
things of God; and
that is the beauty
of his mission.”
President Brigham Young
(1801–77), Discourses of
Brigham Young, sel. John A.
Widtsoe (1954), 458–59.
 Contents December 2013
Volume 43 • Number 12

F E AT U R E S
16 The Promise of Christmas
Elder Robert D. Hales
What promises will you make to your Savior
this Christmas season?
20 Come, Let Us Adore Him
Elder Bruce D. Porter
A fulfillment of ancient prophecy brings liberty
to the captives and hope to the human family.
26 The Art of Giving
Lori Huff Goldade
An experience in the fourth grade taught me
what it means to give all you can.
28 Becoming Better Saints through Interfaith
Involvement
Betsy VanDenBerghe
4 How serving with individuals of other faiths
can deepen our discipleship.
M E S S A G E S 34 Making a Living, Making a Life
Elder Lynn G. Robbins
FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE How can we make mankind our business?
4 Family and Friends Forever 40 The Good News of Repentance
President Henry B. Eyring Brian D. Garner
Repentance connects us to a loving, merciful
VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE Savior and His Atonement.
7 The Divine Mission of Jesus Christ: 45 Poem: Willing Sacrifice
The Only Begotten Son Kerry Bennett
The quiet offering made
by a bishop’s wife.

ON THE COVER
46 Real-Life Changes inside
Front: The Light of the
T h e e n s i g n o f T h e C h u r C h o f J e s u s C h r i s T o f L aT T e r - d ay s a i n T s • d e C e m b e r 2 0 13
Prison Walls
World, by Jay Bryant S. Brent Scharman
Ward. Inside front
cover: Photograph
Through the Savior’s heal-
of Nauvoo Illinois Born to Set Us
ing power, many inmates
Temple by Scott Jarvie Free, pp. 16, 20 are making progress in
Photography.
becoming what Heavenly
The Blessings of
Interfaith Service, p. 28
75th Anniversary of
Deseret Industries, p. 48
Parallels between the Life
of Joseph Smith and the Father wants them to 26
Articles of Faith, p. 70

become.
48 Deseret Industries: Doing a Christlike Work
Ryan Carr
For 75 years, this inspired institution has
helped individuals become more self-reliant.

December 2013 1
 13

D E PA R T M E N T S
62 3 Family Home Evening Ideas

8 What We Believe:

54 Lost Sermons The Lord Will Return to Earth in Glory

Matthew S. McBride
Hundreds of sermons by early Church leaders
10 Our Homes, Our Families:
Helping Children Recognize the Holy Ghost
have finally been transcribed from shorthand Merilee Browne Boyack
for the first time.
58 Indexing Is Vital 13 Teaching For the Strength of Youth:
Repentance
Jennifer Grace Jones
Can something so simple really make a differ-
ence for families around the world?
14 News of the Church
62 Africa—Continent of Bright Hope 76 Latter-day Saint Voices
Richard M. Romney
Africa is a place where we can see the miracle 80 Until We Meet Again:
of the Restoration unfold. The Journey Home
Heather Whittle Wrigley
68 From Mzungu to Friend
David Dixon The articles with this icon contain a sidebar or
Godfrey wanted nothing to do with the text that will help you answer questions from
Church, until a pile of those not of our faith about the Church’s
tree clippings helped practices and beliefs.
change his mind. 54 •W hat are the consequences of delaying
70 The Articles of Faith repentance? p. 40
and the Life of Joseph
Smith
John W. Welch
An engaging way to Make your conference study
teach others, especially more interactive with the
children, about the life digital November 2013
of the Prophet. conference issue for iPad,
available now with the
LDS Ensign app in the Apple
App Store.

2 Ensign
 Family Home Evening Ideas
This issue contains articles and activities that could be used for family home evening.
A MAGAZINE OF THE CHURCH OF The following are some examples.
JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
December 2013 Volume 43 • Number 12
The First Presidency: Thomas S. Monson,
Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf
The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson,
Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard,
Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales,
Jeffrey R. Holland, David A. Bednar,
Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd Christofferson,
Neil L. Andersen

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DAVID STOKER

Editor: Craig A. Cardon
Advisers: Jose L. Alonso, Mervyn B. Arnold,
Shayne M. Bowen, Stanley G. Ellis,
Christoffel Golden
Managing Director: David T. Warner
Director of Operations: Vincent A. Vaughn
Director of Church Magazines:
Allan R. Loyborg
Business Manager: Garff Cannon
Managing Editor: R. Val Johnson
Assistant Managing Editor: “Helping Children Recognize the Holy choose to do, help your children recognize
LaRene Porter Gaunt
Publications Assistant: Faith S. Watson Ghost,” page 10: After reviewing this arti- when they are feeling the Spirit.
Writing and Editing: Susan Barrett, cle, consider planning aural, visual, and kin- “The Promise of Christmas,” page
Ryan Carr, David Dickson, David A. Edwards, esthetic activities that 16: Consider display-
Matthew Flitton, Mindy Raye Friedman, will help your children ing a nativity set or
Lori Fuller, Garrett H. Garff, Jennifer Grace FOCUSING ON THE SAVIOR
Jones, Michael R. Morris, Richard M. Romney,
learn how the Holy a picture of one (see
Ghost speaks to them. For family home evenings during page 17) and asking a
Paul VanDenBerghe
Editorial Interns: Allie Crafton, You might read and the Christmas season, we make a family member to tell
Katherine Nelson
role-play the Christmas special effort to focus on the Savior the story of the birth
Managing Art Director: J. Scott Knudsen
story. You could learn and bear testimony of Him. One of Jesus as found in
Art Director: Tadd R. Peterson evening we identify the symbols
Design: C. Kimball Bott, Colleen Hinckley, hymns and Primary Luke 2. You could then
songs about the of Christmas and discuss how they turn to the article and
Eric P. Johnsen, Susan Lofgren, Scott Mooy
Intellectual Property Coordinator: Savior’s birth and per- relate to the story of Jesus’s birth. read aloud the section
Collette Nebeker Aune form them for friends During another evening we dress as called “The Meaning
Production Manager: Jane Ann Peters
and neighbors. You shepherds, eat a simple meal, and of Christmas.”
Production: Kevin C. Banks, Connie
might look at pictures discuss the angel’s appearance to Discuss what your
Bowthorpe Bridge, Julie Burdett, Bryan W. Gygi,
Denise Kirby, Ginny J. Nilson, Gayle Tate Rafferty of the Savior together the shepherds in Luke 2. Another family can do (such
Prepress: Joshua Dennis
or place a nativity in time we dress as the Wise Men and as giving anonymous
Printing Director: Craig K. Sedgwick
a prominent place in follow paper stars. On each star we gifts) to honor the
Distribution Director: Stephen R. Christiansen write things we have done during
© 2013 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All your home. You could Savior’s birth and to
plan a family service the year that brought our family make Christmastime
rights reserved. The Ensign (ISSN 0884-1136)
is published monthly by The Church of Jesus activity. Whatever you closer to Christ. For our family home meaningful.
Christ of Latter-day Saints, 50 E. North Temple evening just before Christmas, each
Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-0024, USA. person writes down a gift to give to
Periodicals Postage Paid at Salt Lake City, Utah.
the Savior during the coming year
Copyright information: Text and visual
material in the Ensign may be copied for (such as service to others).
incidental, noncommercial church or home use.
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Visual material may not be copied if restrictions
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December 2013 3
FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE

By President
Henry B. Eyring
First Counselor in the
First Presidency

FAMILY AND FRIENDS

FOREVER
W
herever you live, you have friends who are The Lord makes that commandment easier to obey
searching for the greater happiness you have through the change that occurs in your heart as you accept
found in living the restored gospel of Jesus and live the gospel of Jesus Christ. As a result, your love
Christ. They may not be able to describe that happiness in for others grows, as does your desire for them to have the
words, but they can recognize it when they see it in your same happiness you have experienced.
life. They will be eager to learn the source of that happiness, One example of that change is how you welcome
especially when they see that you face trials just as they do. the chance to help in the Lord’s missionary work. Full-
You have felt happiness as you have kept the command- time missionaries soon learn they can expect from a true
ments of God. That is the promised fruit of living the gos- convert a warm response to a request for a referral. The
pel (see Mosiah 2:41). You don’t faithfully obey the Lord’s convert yearns for friends and family members to share in
commandments to be seen by other people, but those who their happiness.
observe your happiness are being prepared by the Lord to When your ward mission leader or the missionaries
hear the good news of the Restoration of the gospel. ask for the names of someone to teach, it is a great com-
The blessings you have been given have created obliga- pliment to you. They know that friends have seen your
tions and wonderful opportunities for you. As a covenant happiness and, therefore, those friends have been pre-
disciple of Jesus Christ, you are obligated to extend to pared to hear and choose to accept the gospel. And they
others an opportunity to find increased happiness, espe- have confidence that you will be the friend they will need
cially to your friends and the members of your family. as they come into the kingdom.
The Lord saw your opportunity and described your obli- You need not fear that you will lose friends by inviting
gation with this commandment: “It becometh every man the missionaries to meet them. I have friends who rejected
who hath been warned to warn his neighbor” (D&C 88:81). the missionaries but have thanked me over many years for

4 Ensign
 offering them something they knew the ordinances of the temple to TEACHING FROM THIS MESSAGE
was so precious to me. You can make
friends forever by offering the gospel,
which they see has brought you hap-
others, just as you do when you give
names of people to the missionaries
to meet. You have felt even greater joy
P resident Eyring explains that we
can show our gratitude for the
Savior by sharing the gospel with
piness. Never miss an opportunity to performing ordinances for your ances- others. You could discuss with those
invite a friend and especially a family tors. It was revealed to the Prophet you teach how the gift of the gospel
member to choose to follow the plan Joseph Smith that our eternal happi- has blessed their lives. Consider inviting
of happiness. ness is possible only if we offer the them to prayerfully identify those with
There is no greater opportunity way to that blessing to our ancestors whom they wish to share the gift of
for that invitation than in the temples through vicarious temple ordinances the gospel and how they might do so.
of the Church. There the Lord can (see D&C 128:18).
offer the ordinances of salvation to Christmastime turns our hearts to
our ancestors who could not receive the Savior and to the joy His gospel
them in life. They look down upon has brought us. We show our gratitude
you with love and hope. The Lord to Him best as we offer that happiness
PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY ROBERT CASEY

has promised that they will have to others. Gratitude is turned to joy as
the opportunity to come into His we offer names to missionaries and as
kingdom (see D&C 137:7–8), and we take the names of our ancestors
He has planted a love for them in to the temple. That evidence of our
your heart. gratitude can make friends and families
Many of you have felt joy in offering that endure forever. ◼

December 2013 5
CHILDREN

4
Share Your Testimony

Y ou could share the gift of the gospel this

Christmas by giving a friend or neighbor
a copy of the Book of Mormon with your 2
testimony written inside. Follow these steps
to get it ready:
1. On a piece of paper, measure a rectangle
about 4½ x 6½ inches (11½ x 16½ cm)
3
and have an adult help you cut it out.
2. Add a picture of yourself—either a
drawing or a photograph—at the top
of the page.
3. Write your testimony under your picture.
4. Have an adult help you attach the paper to
the inside cover of the Book of Mormon.
1

YOUTH

Could I Share a Book of Mormon?

By Josh Arnett

D uring my first year of

high school, my seminary
teacher invited my class to
were members of the Church,
but she never talked about
anything spiritual with me.
gospel. I know that if we help
bring even one person to the
Lord, “how great shall be
give copies of the Book of That changed before I left [our] joy with him [or
Mormon to nonmember for my mission. I got a mes- her] in the kingdom
friends. Even though I was sage from Britny saying she of [our] Father!”
incredibly timid, I accepted had big news for me: she was (D&C 18:15).
the invitation. going to be baptized, and The author lives in
It took me a couple of she wanted to thank me for Washington, USA.
days to build up the courage, being her friend and setting
but I eventually gave my a good example.
friend Britny the book during God took a shy 15-year-old
lunch hour and bore a brief boy with no missionary expe-
testimony. Britny thanked me rience and directed him to
for the book. share the gospel with some-
At the end of that school one He knew would accept it.
year, Britny moved, but we I know that by listening to the
kept in touch. She told me Spirit, we can all find people
about her new school and around us who are waiting
how almost all of her friends to learn about the restored

6 Ensign
 VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE

Prayerfully study this material and seek to know what to share. How will understanding the life Faith, Family, Relief
and mission of the Savior increase your faith in Him and bless those you watch over through
visiting teaching? For more information go to reliefsociety​.lds​.org.

The Divine From Our History

Mission of Jesus
In the New Testament we
read of women, named and

Christ: The Only unnamed, who exercised faith

Begotten Son in Jesus Christ, learned and lived

His teachings, and testified of His
This is part of a series of Visiting Teaching ministry, miracles, and majesty.
Messages featuring aspects of the mission
of the Savior. These women became exemplary
disciples and important witnesses

O ur Savior, Jesus Christ, is called

the Only Begotten Son because
He is the only person on earth to
in the work of salvation.
For example, Martha bore
strong testimony of the Savior’s
be born of a mortal mother and an divinity when she said to Him,
immortal Father. He inherited divine “I believe that thou art the
powers from God, His Father. From
Christ, the Son of God, which
His mother, Mary, He inherited mor- in Jesus Christ is the conviction and should come into the world”
tality and was subject to hunger, thirst, assurance of (1) His status as the (John 11:27).
fatigue, pain, and death.1 Only Begotten Son of God, (2) His Some of the earliest witnesses
Because Jesus Christ is the Only infinite Atonement, and (3) His literal
Begotten of the Father, He was able to of the Savior’s divinity were His
Resurrection.” 2 Modern prophets have
lay down His life and take it up again. mother, Mary, and her cousin
testified: “[ Jesus Christ] was . . . the
The scriptures teach that “through the Elisabeth. Soon after the angel
Only Begotten Son in the flesh, the
atonement of Christ,” we “obtain a res- Gabriel visited Mary, she visited
Redeemer of the world.” 3
urrection” ( Jacob 4:11). We also learn Elisabeth. As soon as Elisabeth
that all “might be raised in immortality From the Scriptures heard Mary’s greeting, she
unto eternal life” if we “would believe” John 3:16; Doctrine and Covenants “was filled with the Holy Ghost”
20:21–24; Moses 5:6–9
TOUCH ME NOT, BY MINERVA TEICHERT, COURTESY OF BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF ART

(D&C 29:43). (Luke 1:41) and bore testimony

As we come to understand more that Mary would become mother
fully what it means for Jesus to be to the Son of God.
the Only Begotten Son of the Father, NOTES
1. See Gospel Principles (2009), 52–53.
our faith in Christ will increase. Elder 2. D. Todd Christofferson, “Building Faith in
Christ,” Ensign, Sept. 2012, 53.
D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum 3. “The Living Christ: The Testimony of the
of the Twelve Apostles said, “Faith Apostles,” Ensign, Apr. 2000, 2–3.

What Can I Do?

1. Why is it important for me 2. How can our faith increase as
to understand the roles of we keep our covenants?
Jesus Christ?

December 2013 7
WHAT WE BEL IE VE

THE LORD WILL RETURN

TO EARTH IN GLORY

A ll that we do in the Church—

missionary work, family history
and temple work, teaching the gospel,
• The Great Apostasy, a falling
away from the truth (see
2 Thessalonians 2:1–3;
Although we can see signs that His
Second Coming is near, no one knows
exactly when the Lord will return: “The
living Christlike lives—prepares us 2 Timothy 4:3–4). hour and the day no man knoweth,
and others for eternal life and for • The Restoration of the gospel neither the angels in heaven, nor shall
the Lord’s Second Coming.1 and of the priesthood, as well as they know until he comes” (D&C 49:7).
His first coming—His mortal life— the coming forth of the Book of Some will not be prepared for the
was witnessed by relatively few peo- Mormon (see Isaiah 29:4–18; Savior’s return. It will be a fearful time
ple. When He returns “with power Acts 3:19–21). for the wicked but a time of peace
and great glory,” all humankind will • The gospel being preached and triumph for the righteous. Thus,
witness it (D&C 29:11). The Second across the world (see Matthew the scriptures and latter-day prophets
Coming will usher in the Millennium, 24:14). have taught us to live so we will be
when the Savior will “dwell in righ- • A time of war, wickedness, and prepared to meet our Savior whenever

FROM LEFT: DETAIL FROM CHRIST AT EMMAUS, BY CARL HEINRICH BLOCH; DETAIL FROM THE SECOND COMING, BY HARRY ANDERSON © IRI;
teousness with men on earth a thou- natural disasters (see Matthew He comes again. The Lord taught:

PHOTOGRAPH OF FLOOD © GETTY IMAGES; PHOTOGRAPH OF SUN © CORBIS; DETAIL FROM THAT YE MAY KNOW, BY GARY L. KAPP
sand years” (D&C 29:11). 24:6–7; 2 Timothy 3:1–7). “At that day, when I shall come in
The scriptures describe many • “Wonders in the heavens and my glory, shall the parable be fulfilled
events that will occur before the in the earth” ( Joel 2:30; see also which I spake concerning the ten
Second Coming. Some of them Matthew 24:29–30; D&C 29:14–16; virgins.
include: 49:23). “For they that are wise and have
received the truth, and have taken the
Holy Spirit for their guide, and have
“We testify that [Jesus Christ] will someday
not been deceived—verily I say unto
return to earth. ‘And the glory of the Lord shall
be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together’ you, they shall not be hewn down
(Isaiah 40:5). He will rule as King of Kings and and cast into the fire, but shall abide
reign as Lord of Lords, and every knee shall the day” (D&C 45:56–57; see also
bend and every tongue shall speak in worship Matthew 25:1–13). ◼
before Him. Each of us will stand to be judged
For more information, see Luke 21;
of Him according to our works and the desires
2 Peter 3; Doctrine and Covenants
of our hearts.” 45:16–52; 88:87–107; 133:17–56.
“The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles,” Ensign, NOTE
Apr. 2000, 3. 1. See, for example, David A. Bednar, “The
Hearts of the Children Shall Turn,” Ensign,
Nov. 2011, 24; and Neil L. Andersen,
“Preparing the World for the Second
Coming,” Ensign, May 2011, 49.

8 Ensign
Before the Second
Coming, there will be
earthquakes, tempests,
and thunder and
lightning storms, and
the waves of the sea
will heave themselves
“beyond their bounds”
(see D&C 88:89–90).

“The sun shall be turned into

darkness, and the moon into
blood, before the great and the
terrible day of the Lord come”
(Joel 2:31).

The Savior will return in glory:

“So great shall be the glory of his
presence that the sun shall hide
his face in shame” (D&C 133:49).

The Savior will stand on

the Mount of Olives, and the
Jews will ask, “What are these
wounds in thine hands and
in thy feet?” He will answer,
“These wounds are the wounds
with which I was wounded in
the house of my friends. . . .
I am Jesus that was crucified.”
(See D&C 45:48–52.)
The righteous will
be resurrected and
caught up to meet
the Savior in the
clouds (see D&C
88:95–97).

December 2013 9
OUR HOMES, OUR FAMILIES

HELPING CHILDREN RECOGNIZE THE HOLY GHOST

By Merrilee Browne Boyack

We can use the different ways the Holy Ghost communicates to help our children develop testimonies.

A s the parents of four sons, my

husband and I always seek
ways to help our children feel the
Spirit and gain a testimony. We had a
breakthrough in understanding in an
unusual way. I was standing in a store
when the prompting came.
Our oldest son’s grades in his social
studies class were declining. We had
talked with him about it, encouraging
him to study harder, but there was still
no improvement. We had been pray-
ing for ideas to help him. One day in
a bookstore, I had a strong impression
to buy a book from a pile of books
that were on sale.
The book was about how each of
us has distinct learning styles. Many
people are visual learners, meaning
they learn best by what they see.
These learners often love art and
reading. Some learn best aurally. They
process information most effectively
when they hear it. These people often
love music. Finally, some learners There was the answer! Our son home and read the material. He was
are kinesthetic learners. They learn was obviously an aural learner— struggling because he wasn’t hearing
best when there is motion or activity he loved music and talking! We the class discussion. Once we under-
involved. These learners sometimes discovered that he was often being stood this, we encouraged him to
struggle in school when teachers insist pulled out of class for other activi- read his assigned material aloud and
on them sitting still. They learn best ties during social studies and was then discuss it with us. His grades
when they’re moving around. then told by the teacher to go shot back up.

10 E n s i g n
 Facilitating Spiritual Experiences Another son was primarily a visual
But our understanding of learning learner. He loved to read and would
styles didn’t stop there. We realized feel the Spirit best while reading the
as we studied this more and observed scriptures or gospel-centered books.
our children that the Holy Ghost often We provided many books for him to
teaches our children in the ways they read that helped him feel the Spirit
learn best. The Prophet Joseph Smith and gain a testimony. We also placed
taught that the Spirit talks to us in our pictures of gospel scenes and say-
language and in ways we can under- ings on our walls so that our house
stand. The Holy Ghost adapts His lan- became a feast of visual learning.
guage to be understood by all, even Our second son was a visual and
little children. “Our Heavenly Father kinesthetic learner. He was a very
is always available to us. He adapts active boy and was happiest on a
to our level of understanding. ‘If He mountain bike or hiking with his the Spirit?” Their answers were very
PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY MATTHEW REIER, EXCEPT AS NOTED; RIGHT: PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DAVID STOKER © 2007

comes to a little child, He will adapt dad. We discovered that he felt the enlightening. One said, “I feel clarity
himself to the language and capac- Spirit best when he was outdoors and in my thoughts.” Another said, “I have
ity of a little child’ ( Joseph Smith, moving. We had many family camp- a warm feeling inside,” while another
in History of the Church, 3:392).” 1 ing trips where we talked about Jesus shared, “I feel a deep sense of peace.”
Knowing that the Spirit adapts His Christ, the Creation, and the plan of A woman who had been a member
communication for our understand- salvation. These messages reached for a few months said, “I feel prickles
ing can encourage parents to create our second son in a powerful way all over!” And several stated that they
opportunities for their children to as he took part in these activities. occasionally would “hear” a voice
hear teachings from the Holy Ghost My husband and I also discovered speaking to them or that new ideas
in ways they will understand best. that kinesthetic learning can occur would come to them.
“All thy children shall be taught of the when doing service. So we did lots of Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the
Lord; and great shall be the peace of service activities with our children so Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has
thy children” (Isaiah 54:13). they could see, hear, and participate. taught: “In its more familiar forms, rev-
As I mentioned, our oldest son’s This created a wonderful environment elation or inspiration comes by means
primary method of learning was aural. where all of our sons could internal- of words or thoughts communicated
Both he and our third son love music, ize lessons of charity and Christlike to the mind (see Enos 1:10; D&C
so in our home we often played beau- service, and these projects especially 8:2–3), by sudden enlightenment (see
tiful music by the Mormon Tabernacle resonated with our second son. D&C 6:14–15), by positive or negative
Choir as well as classical music. They feelings about proposed courses of
felt the Spirit deeply in this environ- Hearing and Understanding action, or even by inspiring perfor-
ment. We also had many lively dis- We also learned that people “hear” mances, as in the performing arts. . . .
cussions regarding the gospel, and the Holy Ghost in a variety of ways. ‘Inspiration comes more as a feeling
this helped them learn truths that I was teaching a Sunday School les- than as a sound.’” 2
were reinforced by the Spirit as they son to relatively new converts, and I It is clear that each of us may hear
heard them. asked the question, “How do you feel and feel the communication of the

December 2013 11
 of ways.” 3 It’s very important to teach
our children that they need to learn to
hear the Spirit in the way He speaks
to them.
As we teach our children, we share
principles of faith, repentance, bap-
tism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Teaching them to hear and understand
the promptings that come to them is
critical to their spiritual development.
President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–
2008) counseled us: “[Your children]
will need all the strength and all the
faith you can give them while they are
yet near you. And they will also need
a greater strength which comes of a
higher power.” 4
Receiving guidance and direction
from our Heavenly Father through
the Holy Ghost is a great blessing in
our lives. As we teach our children
how to receive and pay attention
to these promptings, feelings, and
Holy Ghost in a variety of ways. We minds that has created more prob- instructions, they will be able to gain
should move beyond simply teaching lems than you can resolve. As I have personal testimonies that will give
children that they will have a warm traveled throughout the Church, I’ve them strength in the future. The Holy
feeling because they might not expe- found relatively few people who Ghost can be their constant compan-
rience that feeling; they may receive have experienced a burning of the ion, and they will be able to hear
inspiration in a different way. bosom. In fact, I’ve had many people Him more fully. As parents we can
Elder Jay E. Jensen, formerly of the tell me that they’ve become frustrated help with this process and help bless
Presidency of the Seventy, related this because they have never experienced our children. ◼
story about a member of the Quorum that feeling even though they have The author lives in California, USA.
of the Twelve Apostles who was prayed or fasted for long periods of
NOTES
touring a mission. In between zone time.” Elder Jensen continued: “Over 1. Gérald Caussé, “Even a Child Can
conferences, this Apostle turned to the years, I have tried to learn the dif- Under­stand,” Ensign, Nov. 2008, 32.
2. Dallin H. Oaks, “Eight Ways God Can
the member of the Seventy who had ferent ways in which the Spirit of the Speak to You,” New Era, Sept. 2004, 4.
3. Jay E. Jensen, “Have I Received an
spoken at the previous conference Lord works. Surely God does speak Answer from the Spirit?” Ensign,
and said, “I wonder if you might have from heaven, but he manifests, con- Apr. 1989, 21–22.
4. Gordon B. Hinckley, “These, Our Little
left an impression in the missionaries’ firms, or gives direction in a variety Ones,” Ensign, Dec. 2007, 9.

12 E n s i g n
 TEACHING FOR THE STRENGTH OF YOUTH

REPENTANCE

T he Atonement of the Savior Jesus

Christ makes repentance possible,
and every one of us must repent.
Atonement and what they mean in
your life. You may also want to ask
your teens to share their testimony of
SCRIPTURES ABOUT
REPENTANCE
Proverbs 28:13
Sometimes we become afraid when repentance with you. And as appropri- Isaiah 1:16–18
the serious nature of a sin requires ate, you could invite teenage children Enos 1:2–8
confession to a bishop or branch to help younger brothers and sisters Mosiah 4:1–3; 26:30–31
president, explains Elder Bradley D. with the activity described below. Alma 34:32–33
Foster of the Seventy in an article on Helaman 12:23
pages 28–29 of this month’s New Era. Suggestions for Teaching Children 3 Nephi 9:20–22
However, “those who have traveled To demonstrate what it means to Doctrine and Covenants
the repentance road will tell you that stay on the path the Lord has com- 18:10–13; 58:42–43
not only is the journey possible but manded us to follow, consider using
that when you have been there and a toy car (or an airplane, boat, or
look back, this is what you are going wagon) in an object lesson. Use a
to see: map and ask the child to move the car
“You can do this. And when you do, from one point on the map to another.
everything will be better. . . . Ask, “What is necessary if the vehicle
“As soon as you start, you will feel starts to stray off course?”
relief. . . . When it is clear that if a vehicle
“Your bishop will help you through strays, it must be brought back to
this. You will love him and never the right course, ask how this is like
forget him.” repentance. Explain that sometimes
as we travel through life, we have to keep in mind that children under the
Suggestions for Teaching Youth change our direction to make sure we age of eight are not accountable and
Read with your teens the section are headed the right way. Sometimes do not need to repent, but it is valu-
about repentance in For the Strength we can do this on our own. But some- able for them to learn about the prin-
of Youth. Discuss the blessings we times we need help. Ask the children ciple of repentance.
can receive through the Atonement to tell about times when they have Discuss their answers with them
ILLUSTRATION BY TAIA MORLEY

and how repentance makes these helped themselves, times when others and talk about how repentance is a
possible. have helped them, and ways in which gift from Heavenly Father and from
You could also share your tes- Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ can Jesus Christ that makes it possible for
timony of repentance and the help them. As you teach this topic, us to return to Them again. ◼

December 2013 13
NEWS OF THE CHURCH
Visit news​.lds​.org for more Church news and events.

A series of
videos pro-
duced by the
Church, “An
Introduction to
Mormons: The
Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-
day Saints,”
provides a
resource for
anyone seek-
ing to share
information or
to learn more
about Latter-
day Saints.

“Introduction to Mormons” Videos Available

T he Church has created a series
of videos to provide an intro-
duction to the Church, its mem-
beliefs, and practices and pro-
vide answers to common ques-
tions about the Church. They are
The Church has produced simi-
lar videos in the past. Long-term
plans include translation and
bers, and its various programs a resource for anyone seeking to customization of these resources
and organizations. The public and share or learn more about what for worldwide use.
members of the media have often Mormons believe. The full series of videos
requested this type of introductory The longest video is an over- can be found on the Church’s
information as they have become view segment, “The Church at Gospel Library app, as well as on
more familiar with the Church in a Glance.” Other pieces focus Mormon Newsroom’s YouTube
recent years. on such topics as humanitarian channel. Individuals can view
The 4- to 10-minute segments efforts, beliefs, missionary work, the videos, download the files,
feature members of the Church temples, family, education, and or share by linking to them from
discussing their experiences, Church history and organization. their own social media sites. ◼
14 E n s i g n
New Videos for Primary Celebrates 135 Years
Aaronic Priesthood
N ew videos produced by the Church
can help young men learn how to
In Farmington, Utah, USA, 135
years ago, Bishop John W. Hess
was concerned about the behavior
Taylor, who authorized Bishop Hess
to form an organization for children
in his ward. The Farmington Ward
lead an Aaronic Priesthood quorum and
minister to others. The videos model of the children in his ward. He Primary Association was formally orga-
effective Aaronic Priesthood quorums called the mothers of the ward nized on August 11, 1878, with Sister
and quorum presidency meetings.
together and talked about the impor- Rogers as president.
To see the gallery of videos on
LDS.​org, go to the Aaronic Priesthood tance of guiding the minds of young Today, approximately one million
page under Resources and select Media children. children all over the world benefit from
Resources. Topics include “Effective Aurelia Spencer Rogers listened, Primary each week. Primary leaders
Aaronic Priesthood Presidency and
and then discussed it with Eliza R. and teachers strive to support par-
Quorum Meetings,” “Ministering in
the Aaronic Priesthood,” and others. Snow, who visited Farmington in ents in their role to help children gain
the spring of 1878. Sister Snow in testimonies of Heavenly Father, Jesus
turn met with Church President John Christ, and the restored gospel. ◼

Resources for
Teaching Children
on LDS.org
F or decades, teachers, leaders, and
parents have supplemented their
gospel teaching with the help of the
Church magazines. Now some of

© IRI
these same resources are available
online at LDS.​org and organized so The First Meeting of the Primary Association, by Lynn Fausett and Gordon Cope
you can easily find the lesson helps
you’re looking for.
You can search for resources
by topic, by category, and also by
Primary lesson number by entering
“Resources for Teaching Children” in
the search bar on LDS.​org. You can also
navigate to this page from the Primary
manuals page.
The topics portion of Resources for
Teaching Children is also available in
PHOTOGRAPH BY CHRISTINA SMITH © IRI

Spanish and Portuguese and can be

accessed both from LDS.​org or from
the Liahona magazine home page in
these languages.
Resources include stories, activities,
articles, and other Church-approved
media for teaching children at home
or in church. Additional topics will be Primary leaders and teachers strive to help children gain testimonies of Heavenly
added each month. Father, Jesus Christ, and the restored gospel.

December 2013 15
 By Elder Robert D. Hales
Of the Quorum of the
Twelve Apostles

The PROMISE of
CHRISTMAS
May we take time this Christmas season to
renew our covenants to follow the Savior and
to do His will, just as He did the will of our
Heavenly Father.

W
e can’t fully understand the meaning of Christmas unless we understand
the meaning of the Savior’s life, Atonement, and Resurrection.
I cannot think about the birth of the Savior without thinking of His
words to Pilate: “To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world,
that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my
voice” ( John 18:37).
As we begin the Christmas season, may we consider the scriptural prophecies
about the Savior. They are not just odd statements of coincidence; rather, they are
profound statements of purpose and promise about His life and mission and what
He means for each of us.

Prophecies of His Coming

Christ’s coming was foretold for thousands of years. About 2,000 years before the
birth of Jesus Christ, Abraham taught about His role in the plan of salvation. About
1,400 years before His birth, Moses taught the same wonderful truths. About 700
years before His birth, Isaiah revealed the circumstances of His birth, life, and death:
“Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive,
PHOTOGRAPHS BY MATTHEW REIER

and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).

16 E n s i g n
December 2013 17
 “For unto us a child is born, unto Lehi also spoke about the great
us a son is given: and the govern- number of prophets who had testified
ment shall be upon his shoulder: and concerning the coming of the Redeemer
his name shall be called Wonderful, of the world (see 1 Nephi 10:5).
Counsellor, The mighty God, The
everlasting Father, The Prince of The Promise of Christmas
Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). The Gospel of Luke records that
“He is despised and rejected before the Savior’s birth, His mother
of men; a man of sorrows, and traveled with haste to visit her cousin
acquainted with grief. . . . Elisabeth.
“Surely he hath borne our griefs, “And it came to pass, that, when
and carried our sorrows: yet we did Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary,
esteem him stricken, smitten of God, the babe leaped in her womb; and
and afflicted. Elisabeth was filled with the Holy
“But he was wounded for our Ghost:
transgressions, he was bruised for our “And she spake out with a loud
iniquities . . . and with his stripes we voice, and said, Blessed art thou
are healed. . . . among women, and blessed is the
“. . . He is brought as a lamb to the fruit of thy womb” (Luke 1:41–42).
slaughter, and as a sheep before her As the Holy Ghost bore record to
shearers is dumb, so he openeth not Elisabeth, He bears record to us that
his mouth. the words of the prophets have been
“He was taken from prison and fulfilled. The Savior has come and
from judgment. . . . performed the work His Father sent
“And he made his grave with the Him to do.
wicked, and with the rich in his death; Of the Savior, Nephi recorded:
because he had done no violence, “And I looked and beheld the vir-
neither was any deceit in his mouth” gin again, bearing a child in her arms.
(Isaiah 53:3–5, 7–9). “And the angel said unto me:
Not long after Isaiah’s prophecy, Behold the Lamb of God, yea,
the prophet Lehi had a profound even the Son of the Eternal Father!”
dream and taught his family what he (1 Nephi 11:20–21).
had learned. Nephi recorded: “Six When the Savior was 12, He taught Each week as we participate in the
hundred years from the time that in the temple. He explained to His ordinance of the sacrament, we
my father left Jerusalem, a prophet anxious parents that He was about His renew the promise of the Savior’s
would the Lord God raise up among Father’s business (see Luke 2:42–49). birth in our own lives.
the Jews—even a Messiah, or, in That business was accomplished as
other words, a Savior of the world” He went forward fulfilling His earthly
(1 Nephi 10:4). mission. The Savior describes the

18 E n s i g n
culmination of that mission in these about the Lord’s birth. Another way our covenant of obedience and
stirring words: is to relate stories like that of John our promise that we will always
“I came unto my own, and my own Weightman in The Mansion. remember Him.
received me not. And the scriptures John Weightman was a successful The gospel, as recorded in the
concerning my coming are fulfilled. man whose charities brought him Doctrine and Covenants, is this:
“And as many as have received attention and renown. One evening, “That he came into the world, even
me, to them have I given to become after perusing a pile of newspaper Jesus, to be crucified for the world,
the sons [and daughters] of God; and clippings praising him for his gener- and to bear the sins of the world, and
even so will I to as many as shall osity, he picked up his Bible. Soon to sanctify the world, and to cleanse it
believe on my name, for behold, by he fell asleep after reading the from all unrighteousness;
me redemption cometh, and in me is Savior’s words: “Lay not up for your- “That through him all might be
the law of Moses fulfilled” (3 Nephi selves treasures upon earth, where saved” (D&C 76:41–42).
9:16–17). moth and rust doth corrupt, and May we take time this Christmas
His promise that we can become where thieves break through and season to renew our covenants to fol-
His sons and daughters will be real- steal” (Matthew 6:19). low the Savior and to do His will, just
ized as we believe in Him and exer- As he slept, John found himself in as He did the will of our Heavenly
cise faith in Him unto obedience. “the heavenly city,” traveling with oth- Father. As we do so, the words of
Then we will be prepared to receive ers as they received their mansions. King Benjamin’s people, recorded
the gift of eternal life. When the Keeper of the Gate stopped 125 years before the Savior’s birth,
He said: “Behold, I am he who in front of a tiny hut built of cast-off will be fulfilled for us today: “O have
was prepared from the foundation materials, he said to John, “This is mercy, and apply the atoning blood
of the world to redeem my people. your mansion.” of Christ that we may receive forgive-
Behold, I am Jesus Christ. . . . In John protested, listing his many ness of our sins, and our hearts may
me shall all mankind have life, and public contributions. be purified; for we believe in Jesus
that eternally, even they who shall “Were not all these carefully recorded Christ, the Son of God, who created
believe on my name; and they shall on earth where they would add to your heaven and earth, and all things; who
become my sons and my daughters” credit?” asked the Keeper of the Gate. shall come down among the children
(Ether 3:14). “You have had your reward for them. of men” (Mosiah 4:2).
Would you be paid twice?”1 I testify that the Savior came down
The Meaning of Christmas During this Christmas season, I in the meridian of time and that He
Christmas is a time to share our hope each of us has the opportunity will come again. I bear witness that
gifts, strengthen others, and do our to give anonymously. His Church, restored in this last dis-
part in the kingdom of God. Christmas pensation before His Second Coming,
is also a time to express our love to Obtaining the Promise is the “marvelous work and a wonder”
others and to bear our testimony of Each week as we participate in (2 Nephi 25:17) in which we as Latter-
the Savior. the ordinance of the sacrament, we day Saints are engaged. ◼
One way we can share our tes- renew the promise of the Savior’s NOTE
1. Henry Van Dyke, “The Mansion,” in
timony is to have a nativity in our birth in our own lives. We take Inspirational Classics for Latter-day Saints,
home so we can spark conversations His name upon us, and we renew comp. Jack M. Lyon (2000), 54–57, 62–63.

December 2013 19
20 E n s i g n
 By Elder
Bruce D. Porter
Of the Seventy

COME ,
LET US ADORE HIM
Whatever binds us—sins, circumstances, or
past events—the Lord Jesus Christ, the great
Immanuel, has come to set us free.

M
ore than 700 years before the birth of Jesus Christ,
Isaiah prophesied of Him in words memorialized
by George Frideric Handel in The Messiah oratorio:
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the
government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall
be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The ever-
lasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
Handel’s Messiah also brings to glorious musical life the
following admonition, based on Isaiah 40:9: “O thou that
tellest good tidings to Zion, . . . O thou that tellest good tid-
ings to Jerusalem, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be
not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God!” 1
Behold your God, born as a babe in Bethlehem and
wrapped in swaddling clothes. Behold your God, born in
NATIVITY SCENE BY BERNARDINUS INDISUR FROM ISTOCKPHOTO/THINKSTOCK

poverty and simplicity that He might walk among common

people as a common man. Behold your God, even the infi-
nite and eternal Redeemer, veiled in flesh and come to live
upon the very earth He had created.
Return with me to that sacred first Christmas in
Bethlehem to contemplate the birth of our Lord. He came
in the quiet of the night, in the meridian of time, He who
is Immanuel (see Isaiah 7:14), the Stem of Jesse (see Isaiah
11:1), the Dayspring (see Luke 1:78), the Lord Almighty

December 2013 21
 (see 2 Corinthians 6:18). His birth marked The Savior spring was the traditional birthing season.
the promised visitation of the Creator to the knew life from The shepherds would have stayed up most
earth, the condescension of God to man (see every side and nights, tending their sheep beneath the crys-
1 Nephi 11:16–27). As Isaiah wrote of the every angle, tal night sky; hence, the angels who heralded
event, “The people that walked in darkness both above the Savior’s birth would have had no need to
have seen a great light: they that dwell in the and below. wake them.

THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD, BY GREG K. OLSEN, MAY NOT BE COPIED; THE CRUCIFIXION, BY HARRY ANDERSON; THE PASSOVER, BY WILLIAM HENRY MARGETSON
land of the shadow of death, upon them hath
He who was
the light shined” (Isaiah 9:2). The Lamb of God
the greatest
We know from modern revelation that the The boy child who arrived that birthing sea-
made Himself
foreordained King of Israel came to earth in son is known as “the Lamb of God” ( John 1:29;
the springtime (see D&C 20:1). Micah proph-
the least—the 1 Nephi 11:31; D&C 88:106). It is a title of deep
esied that He would be born in Bethlehem— Heavenly significance, for He arrived with the lambs and
“little among the thousands of Judah” (Micah Shepherd who would someday be “brought as a lamb to the
5:2). The village of His birth lay in the shadow became the slaughter” (Isaiah 53:7). Yet paradoxically, He
of mighty Jerusalem, which was five miles Lamb. was also the Good Shepherd (see John 10:11),
(8 km) to the north. Jerusalem was the capital one who cares for the lambs. Thus, these twin
city of Judaea, seat of the temple and bastion symbols of His life represent both those who
of Roman power. Bethlehem, by contrast, serve and those who are served. It was only
was a pastoral town, homespun and agrarian. right that Christ should play both roles, for in
Its only claim to fame was as the birthplace life He “descended below all things” (D&C
of David, the ancient king of Israel through 88:6), and in eternity He “ascended up on
whose lineage Christ would be born; hence, high” and is in and through and “round about
the little village was commonly known as the all things” (D&C 88:6, 41). He knew life from
City of David. Its Hebrew name, Beth Lechem, every side and every angle, both above and
meant “house of bread,” 2 a name that was of below. He who was the greatest made Himself
no particular significance until He who would the least—the Heavenly Shepherd who became
be known as the Bread of Life was born. the Lamb.
The fields surrounding Bethlehem were His coming was more than simply the
home to numerous flocks of sheep, and early birth of a great prophet, the advent of a

22 E n s i g n
promised heir to the royal throne, or even the Caesar Augustus. The requirement of the census
arrival of the only perfect person who would allowed them to make their appearance in Bethlehem
ever walk the earth. It was the coming of the anytime during the year, but they likely chose the
God of heaven “to walk upon his footstool Passover season because the Mosaic law required all
and be like man, almost.” 3 males to present themselves in Jerusalem at Passover.4
Jesus Christ is the Creator of the world and Because Bethlehem was virtually next door to the
the Great Jehovah of the Old Testament. It Holy City, the couple from Nazareth could take care
was His voice that resounded on Mount Sinai, of two obligations at once.
His power that upheld chosen Israel in its The innkeeper has come down in history as some-
wanderings, and His presence that revealed what notorious. Yet given the crowding throughout
to Enoch, Isaiah, and all the prophets the the region during Passover, we can hardly blame him
glory of things to come. And therein lies the for having no room to offer the couple from Nazareth.
greatest miracle of the Nativity: when the God While the majority of Passover pilgrims camped out
and Creator of heaven and earth first revealed in thousands of tents pitched on the plains around
Himself in person to the world, He chose to Jerusalem, thousands of others sought refuge in the local
do so as an infant—helpless and dependent. inns, known as caravansaries or khans. The Bethlehem
An ancient Hebrew tradition held that the inn was no doubt overflowing, and the innkeeper’s offer-
Messiah would be born at Passover. We know ing of the stable was likely an act of genuine kindness.
that April in the meridian of time indeed fell Even had the couple found room in the inn, it would
in the week of the Passover feast—that sacred have offered only primitive accommodations. A typical
Jewish commemoration of Israel’s salvation
from the destroying angel that brought death An ancient
to the firstborn sons of Egypt. Each Israelite Hebrew tradi-
family that sacrificed a lamb and smeared tion held that
its blood on the wooden doorposts of their the Messiah
dwelling was spared (see Exodus 12:3–30). would be born
Thirty-three years after Christ’s Passover at Passover.
birth, His blood was smeared on the wooden
We know that
posts of a cross to save His people from the
April in the
destroying angels of death and sin.
meridian of
The Passover feast may have been
time indeed
the reason there was no room at the inn
for Mary and Joseph. The population of fell in the week
Jerusalem swelled by tens of thousands of the Passover
during Passover, forcing travelers to seek feast.
accommodations in outlying towns. Mary
and Joseph went to Bethlehem, the home
of Joseph’s forefathers, to fulfill the require-
ments of an imperial census ordered by

December 2013 23
khan of the period was a stone structure consisting of a had no interest in his parents’ new religion. But his parents
series of small rooms, each with only three walls and open loved him, and they treasured the hope that someday their
to public view on one side. The stable, however, was likely son might be brought to know the truth of the restored
a walled courtyard or even a limestone cave, where animals gospel. As the years passed, they tried many times to per-
belonging to the guests were kept.5 Whether in courtyard, suade him to at least meet with the missionaries and hear
cave, or other refuge, Christ’s birth among the animals did their message. He refused again and again, and he mocked
have one conspicuous advantage over the crowded interior his parents for their religious faith.
of an inn: here at least were peace and privacy. In this One day in desperation his mother said, “Thomas, if you
sense, the offering of the stable was a blessing, allowing will take the missionary discussions one time, then I will
the most sacred birth in human history to take place in rev- never again talk to you about the Church.” Thomas decided
erent solitude. this was a good bargain and agreed to meet with the mis-
sionaries. During the first three discussions, he simply sat
Liberty to the Captives there full of pride, occasionally making fun of what the
Seven hundred years before that first Christmas, the elders were teaching.
prophet Isaiah penned a messianic prophecy that the During the fourth discussion, about the Atonement of
Savior later read to His fellow villagers of Nazareth: “The Jesus Christ and the first principles of the gospel, Thomas
Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath said nothing but grew unusually silent and listened closely.
anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he At the end of the lesson, the elders bore their testimonies
hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim of the Savior. One of the missionaries then felt prompted
liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to to open his Bible and read these words:
them that are bound” (Isaiah 61:1; see also Luke 4:18–19). “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden,
When we read of Christ’s mission to proclaim liberty to and I will give you rest.
the captives and open the prison to those who are bound, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am
we probably think first of His ministry in the spirit world meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your
among the dead. But we are all captive —captive to the souls” (Matthew 11:28–29).
corruption and weakness of mortal bodies and subject to Without warning, Thomas burst into tears. “Are you try-
the temptations of the flesh, to infirmity, and, ultimately, ing to say that Christ can forgive me of my sins?” he asked.
to death—and we all have need to be set free. “I have lived a terrible life. I am haunted by the memory of
Whatever binds us—sins, circumstances, or past events— my sins. I would do anything to be freed of the guilt I feel.”
the Lord Jesus Christ, the great Immanuel, came to set us His pride had been a facade that hid a soul captive to
free. He proclaims liberty to the captives and freedom from sin and guilt. The elders assured Thomas that Christ would
the bonds of death and the prison of sin, ignorance, pride, forgive him and free him from the burden of guilt if he
and error. It was prophesied that He would say to the pris- would but repent and be baptized and confirmed. Then
oners, “Go forth” (Isaiah 49:9). The only condition of our they bore testimony of the power of the Atonement. From
freedom is that we come unto Him with broken hearts and that moment on, everything changed in Thomas’s life. He
contrite spirits, repent, and seek to do His will. had much to repent of and to overcome, but through the
About 30 years ago I met a man whom I will call blessings of the Lord, he qualified for baptism.
Thomas. He was 45 years old when I met him. Twenty More than 20 years later, as I sat in the chapel of the
years earlier his parents had joined the Church. Thomas Frankfurt Germany Temple, a gray-haired man in front

24 E n s i g n
 of me turned around and said, “Aren’t you Perhaps this The King of kings lay thus in lowly manger,
Elder Porter?” To my great joy, I recognized Christmas sea- In all our trials born to be our friend.6
Thomas—a man freed from bondage by the son we might
power of Jesus Christ and still faithful in the The music and message pierced me deeply, and
each resolve
Lord’s Church. tears flowed as I contemplated the glorious sacrifice
to approach
Perhaps this Christmas season we might and perfect life of the Redeemer of Israel—He who
our Father in
each resolve to approach our Father in was born to be the friend of the lowly and the hope
Heaven hum-
Heaven humbly in prayer and petition the of the meek. I thought of my experience in Jerusalem,
power of His Beloved Son to be with us in
bly in prayer and love flooded through my whole being for Him
our daily walk and to free us from our per- and petition who had come to earth and taken upon Himself
sonal forms of captivity, great or small. the power of the burdens of us all. I was overwhelmed to think
His beloved that He might regard me as a friend. I have never
O Holy Night Son to be with forgotten the tender feelings of that early Sunday
In December 1987, about two weeks before us in our daily morning, which were as pure a witness as I have
walk and to
LIGHT AND TRUTH, BY SIMON DEWEY; THE HEALING BALM, BY DAVID LINDSLEY, MAY NOT BE COPIED

Christmas, I traveled to Israel on business. ever received.

Unfortunately, it was not a peaceful time in free us from I bear my witness of the Savior of the world. I
the Holy Land. There were demonstrations in our personal know that He lives. I know that He was foreordained
the West Bank, the streets of Old Jerusalem forms of cap- before the Creation of the world to proclaim liberty to
were deserted, and the shops were boarded tivity, great or the captives. Of His birth and life I say, “Oh, come, let
up. Political tension filled the air, and to make us adore him.” 7 ◼
small.
matters worse, a cold rain drizzled most of the From a devotional address, “A Child Is Born,” given at Brigham
Young University on December 9, 2008. For the full address, go to
week. Fearful of violence, tourists stayed away speeches.byu.edu.
in droves. Yet as I walked through Jerusalem,
NOTES
peace filled my heart to know that this was 1. The Messiah, ed. T. Tertius Noble (1912), vi.
the city the Redeemer loved so much. 2. See Guide to the Scriptures, “Bethlehem,” scriptures.lds.org.
3. “O God, the Eternal Father,” Hymns, no. 175.
I returned to the United States late on the 4. See Bible Dictionary, “Feasts.”
5. See Russell M. Nelson, “The Peace and Joy of Knowing the
Friday before Christmas. When the Sabbath Savior Lives,” Ensign, Dec. 2011, 19.
dawned two days later, my alarm woke me to 6. “Cantique de Noël” (“O Holy Night”), Recreational Songs
(1949), 143.
the music of “O Holy Night”: 7. “Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful,” Hymns, no. 202.

December 2013 25
 Giving
THE ART OF

Some people have very

little but give everything.

W
By Lori Huff Goldade

henever I reflect upon this joyous time of my tear-stained face, asked about the Christmas party. I
year, I remember a Christmas from long ago expressed to her my disappointment about the gifts. My
when I learned the art of giving. mother lovingly put her arms around me, looked sadly into
I was in the fourth grade, and my friends and I were my eyes, and then taught me a great lesson. She told me
filled with holiday excitement. As was customary in our that Paul, most likely too poor to buy a gift, had probably
class, we drew names for the Christmas gift exchange. I searched through everything he had at home for a meaning-
hoped that the cute boy across the room had drawn my ful present and, after much thought, had probably chosen
name. Another boy named Paul sat behind me. He often some of his most prized possessions to give to me.
came to school with unclean clothes and dirty hands. My Again tears came to my eyes, but not because I hadn’t
friends and I had made no effort to befriend him. received something I wanted. This time they came because I
When the day of the big party arrived, the teacher dis- had been so selfish and had not accepted the best gift given
tributed our gifts. The package I received was large and that Christmas. I had rejected a gift of love and sacrifice.
appeared to be hastily wrapped. Anxiously I tore off the Some people have much and give very little. Others have
wrapping paper. Inside was the book Lassie Come-Home. little and give everything. Whenever I am tempted to be crit-
It wasn’t a clean, new copy as I might have hoped but had ical of another’s offering—whether it is of time, resources,
worn, frayed pages and a stain on the cover. Dismayed, I or effort—I try to remember that some give all they can, just
quickly hid it in my desk. Then I noticed something else as in the account of the widow who “did cast in all that she
ILLUSTRATION BY DILLEEN MARSH

hidden in the wrapping paper—a rattlesnake rattler in a pill had, even all her living” (Mark 12:44). The art of giving is to
bottle. On a name card was carefully written “From Paul.” give all that you can, even if it is only two mites.
In tears, I ran to the girls’ restroom. I didn’t express it as a fourth grader, but I am grateful for
Embarrassed, I remained in the restroom until the party Paul’s Christmas gift of sacrifice and love. ◼
was over and then hurried home. My mother, seeing The author lives in Washington, USA.

26 E n s i g n
December 2013 27
 At the Tabernacle on Temple Square in Salt Lake City,
Utah, Dr. David R. Parker, associate director of the Eunice
Kennedy Shriver National Center for Community of
Caring, signs “Let There Be Peace on Earth” while the
audience sings. Held in February 2012, this event was
under the direction of the Salt Lake Interfaith Roundtable.

28 E n s i g n
 BECOMING BETTER SAINTS THROUGH

Interfaith
Involvement
When we serve alongside those of other faiths,
we not only build our communities and improve our
relationships but we also become better disciples ourselves.

C
By Betsy VanDenBerghe

hurch leaders frequently call on members to participate with the honest

in heart—regardless of religious affiliation—in service and in causes on
moral issues. And Church leaders often set the example. Recently, President
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, along with his wife, Harriet, received a Humanitarian of the Year
award from Catholic Community Services; he noted the irony of “two Germans, for-
mer Lutherans, now committed Mormons being honored by Catholics in the United
States of America.” 1
Members around the world have responded commendably to the call to serve
shoulder to shoulder with members of other organizations. I have been touched by
accounts of LDS wards growing community gardens, holding interfaith conferences
on moral values, and doing community cleanups with other congregations.
In serving with those of other faiths, I’ve found the encouragement from Elder
Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to be true: Respectful and
sincere interfaith service not only builds our communities but also enables us to
collectively and individually grow in our love of God and His children.2

Bettering the World

A few years ago, a Presbyterian minister moved into my community wanting
to serve all of her neighbors, not just her church congregation. As she reached
PHOTOGRAPH BY LESLIE NILSSON

out in our predominantly LDS neighborhood with friendliness, offers to help, and
invitations to neighborhood parties, ward members began participating in her
congregation’s service projects; together, she and neighbors of various faiths held

December 2013 29
Holladay Matters (in Holladay, Utah, USA) was formed to
welcome people of all faiths, or no religious affiliation, into
neighborhood projects and activities. Pictured are the found-
ing members, women of various denominations.

a fundraiser that significantly helped an LDS family with

dire medical expenses.
Apostle Orson F. Whitney (1855–1931) stated, “God
is using more than one people for the accomplishment
of his great and marvelous work. . . . It is too vast, too
arduous, for any one people.” 3 Great things can be In December 2011, children from the Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church in New Jersey, USA, perform a Christmas pro-
accomplished when good people band together. Our
gram with children from a congregation of The Church of Jesus
neighborhood minister’s efforts led to the formation of a Christ of Latter-day Saints. The benefit concert helped collect
community interfaith committee that, along with our stake food for the local food pantry.
Relief Society, put on a women’s conference supplying
hygiene kits and books to refugee agencies. These inter-
faith connections then enabled stake members to help a Bettering Our Relationships
congregation feed a large refugee gathering and to step As we serve with others, certain guidelines can help us
in when another church needed additional volunteers at make our interactions more meaningful and avoid giving
a homeless shelter. offense. I once lived in a large city and volunteered for a
“We have a responsibility . . . to work cooperatively local church’s tutoring program open to the public—only
with other churches and organizations,” President to discover that the person in charge found my member-
Thomas S. Monson has told members,4 and this outreach ship in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
has blessed the world beyond humanitarian service. unacceptable. That experience convinced me to value any-
In an address to Christian leaders in the United States, one’s contribution regardless of his or her religious affili­
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve ation (or lack thereof). I gratefully follow up on anyone’s
Apostles described a series of LDS–Evangelical Christian interest in learning about the Church, but I also know that
dialogues held at Brigham Young University.5 One out- we Latter-day Saints take Jesus’s charge seriously to love
come of these conferences occurred when a prominent our neighbor, clothe the naked, feed the hungry, and visit
theologian apologized for mischaracterizations of the the imprisoned (see Matthew 25:34–36) without expecting
Mormon faith by some in his community.6 Of such bridge the conversion of the recipient or those who serve with us.
building Elder Holland said, “I cannot help but believe Sincere and respectful interfaith engagement never requires
this to be part of a divine orchestration of events in these any group, including ours, to disavow its beliefs. Rather,
troubled times.” 7 it encourages participants to “contend against no church”

30 E n s i g n
 DOCTRINAL POINTS
• God uses the honest
in heart in all denom-
inations and cultures
to further His work on
earth.
One LDS speaker at an interfaith aca- • Working with others
demic conference observed that making not of our faith to
connections with others helps those advance good causes
outside our faith better understand us.9 enables us to do more
Another scholar, not of our faith, teaches good than we could
do alone.
a seminar on Mormonism at a prominent
American university. She discovered that • Respectful, friendly
her students wanted to learn about our interfaith engage-
Church “primarily . . . because they were ment decreases mis-
understandings, builds
raised to believe that the religion was a cult,
feelings of brother-
but their experience with Mormon friends
hood and sisterhood,
and colleagues was not consistent with that and draws us closer to
stereotype.” 10 the Father of us all.

Bettering Ourselves
Serving alongside others not only helps
them to understand us, but it also motivates
(D&C 18:20) and “clothe [themselves] with us to learn from them and become more
the bond of charity” (D&C 88:125). aware that God is “no respecter of persons”
Another helpful guideline came from a wise (D&C 1:35). He assists good people in all
stake leader in our heavily LDS neighborhood. faiths and cultures in their efforts to improve
He advised members serving with other the lives of His children. Participants discuss
faiths not to “take over” by dominating in This recognition of the good in others defending religious
decisions or leadership but to work in coun- helps us remain humble—as opposed to the freedoms in an inter-
faith conference held
cils and allow all to “have an equal privilege” Pharisees Jesus condemned for their spiritual in São Paulo, Brazil, in
(D&C 88:122). This leader, who had extensive pride (see Matthew 23) or the Zoramites, March 2013.
FROM LEFT: PHOTOGRAPHS BY LLOYD ELDREDGE, BRENDA BRADSHAW, AND NEI GARCIA

experience engaging with other churches,

also encouraged members to develop good
relationships. He had discovered that some
who had partnered with Latter-day Saints
found them hardworking and pleasant but
more interested in getting the work done than
in developing friendships.
My experiences in community and edu-
cational causes have convinced me that the
Spirit is strong when diverse people unite in
a worthy mission. Brotherly love and pure
motives propel service forward even more
than the hard work involved.8
Below, from left: whom the Book of Alma portrays as exclu- her experience and described her initial
Bharatanatyam danc- sive and arrogant (see Alma 31). Openness defensiveness toward the LDS students. But
ers perform in the Salt
Lake Tabernacle during to the good in others enables us to become after finally forming meaningful friendships,
an Interfaith Music better people. she came to appreciate “the emphasis I felt
Tribute in February
Our love can expand from a close circle Latter-day Saints placed on God’s nearness
2010. An audience
member enjoys the of family to encompass not only our friends to humanity. I began recognizing that in an
tribute. In a Mormon but ultimately our neighbors—and even effort to retain God’s transcendence, I had
Messages video,
young adults from var-
enemies. One Church member serving in the sacrificed God’s imminence—and this reali-
ious faiths discuss the American military in post–World War II Japan zation had a profound effect on me.” 12
importance of sexual told of his struggle with bitterness toward In his address to Christian leaders, Elder
purity. Participants at
the annual Interfaith the Japanese people. After being welcomed Holland acknowledged the “risk associ-
Charity Quilting Bee into a shrine of worship by Japanese towns- ated with learning something new about
held in Houston, Texas, people, however, he found that “their spirits someone else. New insights always affect
USA, make quilts for
needy families. touched mine, and I felt an amazing change old perspectives, and thus some rethinking,
in my feelings toward them. My bitterness rearranging, and restructuring of our world-
melted. . . . I thought about what had hap- views is inevitable.” 13 In befriending people
pened in that shrine and the amazing trans- of other faiths, I often find myself analyzing
formation I felt toward the people there.” 11 our differences, trying to distinguish the
Likewise, when we genuinely welcome cultural divides from the doctrinal ones, all
others into our midst, they can undergo the while trying to appreciate everything
transformation as well. An Evangelical virtuous and lovely they have to offer.
Christian who graduated from Brigham Indeed, the effort sometimes feels risky,
Young University wrote an article about but it is always worth it. In the process of
 Alan Bachman, chairman of the Salt Lake Three Latter-day Saint women attend Faith Feast, an intercultural progressive
Interfaith Roundtable, speaks in the Salt dinner in Spokane, Washington, USA. They and other attendees visited a local
Lake Tabernacle in February 2012. Muslim mosque, a Sikh gurdwara, and a Presbyterian church.

restructuring my paradigm, I find myself shedding more NOTES

1. Dieter F. Uchtdorf, in Marjorie Cortez, “Catholic Community Services
of my superficial cultural tendencies and coming closer to Honors Uchtdorfs, Eccles as Humanitarians of the Year,” Nov. 7, 2012,
the essence of the gospel. deseretnews.com.
LEFT (CLOCKWISE): PHOTOGRAPH BY CRAIG DIMOND; PHOTOGRAPH BY LESLIE NILSSON; © 2011 IRI; © 2007 IRI; TOP (LEFT TO

2. See Quentin L. Cook, “Partnering with Our Friends from Other Faiths,”
Several LDS groups invited my minister friend to speak Aug. 9, 2010, patheos.com.
3. Orson F. Whitney, in Conference Report, Apr. 1928, 59.
on the topic of “loving our neighbor despite religious 4. Thomas S. Monson, in “The Mormon Ethic of Civility,” Oct. 16, 2009,
differences,” and she experienced a great deal of accep- mormonnewsroom.org.
5. See Jeffrey R. Holland, “Standing Together for the Cause of Christ,”
tance from those who attended. In turn, she invited several Ensign, Aug. 2012, 44–46.
6. Joseph Walker, “Evangelical Leader Says LDS Church Is Not a Cult,”
Latter-day Saints, including me, to speak to different con- Oct. 10, 2011, deseretnews.com.
gregations on the same topic. After the services, I found 7. Jeffrey R. Holland, “Standing Together,” 44.
RIGHT): PHOTOGRAPH BY LESLIE NILSSON; PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF EMILY GEDDES

8. See Michael A. Neider, “The Voice of the People,” Ensign, Oct. 2012,
myself surrounded by congregants wanting to talk to me, 38–40.
9. See Blair D. Hodges, “Mormons, Methodists Meet to Consider
hug me, and even shed tears of mutual love and under- Similarities, Compare Cultures, Theology, Music,” Feb. 25, 2012,
standing. In experiences like these, I have found Elder deseretnews.com.
10. Joseph Walker, “University of Virginia Chair in Mormon Studies
Holland’s conclusion to be true: Named for Richard L. Bushman,” Oct. 12, 2012, deseretnews.com.
11. Ferron A. Olson, “Forgiveness at Wakayama,” Ensign, Dec. 2011, 57.
“When we look beyond people’s color, ethnic group, 12. Sarah Taylor, in “An Evangelical Student’s Experience at BYU,”
social circle, church, synagogue, mosque, creed, and Meridian Magazine, ldsmag.com.
13. Jeffrey R. Holland, “Standing Together,” 49.
statement of belief, and when we try our best to see them 14. Jeffrey R. Holland, “Standing Together,” 49.
for who and what they are—children of the same God—
something good and worthwhile happens within us, and
we are thereby drawn into a closer union with that God
who is the Father of us all.” 14 ◼
The author lives in Utah, USA.
December 2013 33
FALL PLANTING, BY GRANT WOOD, COURTESY OF JOHN DEERE

By Elder

Of the Seventy
Lynn G. Robbins
Making
MAKING A LIVING,

aLife May we all use our God-given talents in

the service of our fellowmen and in making our
communities and world better places to live.

W
hen Adam and Eve were driven from the Garden of Eden, the
Lord told Adam, “In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread”
(Genesis 3:19). Adam really had only one choice as to his life’s
work—he “began to till the earth” (Moses 5:1). He clearly had some chal-
lenges, but his work environment had some advantages as well. Among
others, he was able to set his own hours and approve his own sick leave
and vacation time, and he could not be fired.
Because pride can exist only in an environment of competition and
comparison, it was unknown to Adam. There was no temptation to keep up
with neighbors. There was no coveting, jealousy, envy, selfishness, or any
other sins that feed on pride.
In fact, Satan had little with which to work. The competition he so anx-
iously awaited could not take place until Adam and Eve began to multiply
and replenish the earth. When competition finally did occur, it happened
in the workplace and in the acquiring of material possessions. It was here
that Satan claimed Cain as his first victim when Cain fell prey to the Master
Mahan principle “that I may murder and get gain” (Moses 5:31).
The acquiring of wealth and material possessions would become fertile
ground for Satan as he tempted mankind with the cunning strategy that
this world is our destiny and that anything and everything here is available
for money.

December 2013 35
 Making a living was part of the Lord’s plan for His • Filling your life with good works that positively affect
children, not just for our survival but also to see how we your community and world.
would get along with others in making that living—to see In Charles Dickens’s classic story A Christmas Carol,
if we would be honest in our dealings with our fellowmen. Ebenezer Scrooge undergoes an amazing transformation
Satan quickly recognized the work environment as a stra- from a ruthless moneylender to a caring and charitable
tegic setting to stir up all manner of sin, including covet- businessman and philanthropist. As his motives evolve,
ousness, self-indulgence, living beyond one’s means, anger, transforming him from a cruel and stingy miser to a com-
infidelity, greed, and even theft and murder. passionate member of his community, we witness a mar-
velous impact on him and others.
Motives in the Workplace The motives that drive people are the hinges upon
What you do to make a living and how much you earn which major outcomes swing. The Lord has identified two
aren’t nearly as important to the Lord as whether you are: opposite motivators—God and mammon (see 3 Nephi
• Building His kingdom, including strong and valiant 13:24). We know that money itself is not evil; in fact, it
families. represents “the sweat of [our] face.” Mammon goes beyond
• Honest in your dealings with your fellowmen and money to “the love of money,” which is referred to as “the
using your God-given talents in their service. root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:10).
I want to share some illustrations of the interplay
between a love of God and our fellowmen on the one
hand and the need to make a living on the other. There are
several combinations of these two motives that I will give
the following grade levels:

A Level
At the A level, the Lord established the correct order of
priorities, as we read in Jacob:
“Before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God.
“And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall
obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for
the intent to do good” ( Jacob 2:18–19).
At this level, the primary motivation is a love of God and
our fellowmen. Of necessity, the secondary motivation is to
earn a living.
If a love of God and our fellowmen is the primary moti-
LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH BY HULTON ARCHIVE/GETTY IMAGES

vation, then the workingman and workingwoman at this

level will be kingdom builders and full-tithe payers. They
will have a “zeal towards God, and also towards men; for

In Charles Dickens’s classic story A Christmas Carol, Ebenezer

Scrooge undergoes an amazing transformation from a ruthless
moneylender to a caring and charitable businessman and
philanthropist. As his motives evolve, we witness a marvelous
impact on him and others.

36 E n s i g n
they [will be] perfectly honest and upright in all things” but they look for the cheapest ways to produce, without
(Alma 27:27). As laborers they will be “worthy of [their] any true concern for their customers or employees. Their
hire” (Luke 10:7). As employers they will give “a just rec- personal integrity is compromised as they begin to engage
ompense of wages” (D&C 124:121). They will be beloved in dishonest practices, such as deceptive advertising and
employers and endeavor to help not only their customers meaningless guarantees.
but also their employees and community. They will offer
superior customer service. Sometimes they will even ren- D Level
der service at no charge to help someone in need, such as At the D level, the unwary are more victims than custom-
those doctors who travel to third-world countries to help ers. Once again the motivation is the love of money but this
the disadvantaged. Their products and services are of the time at the peril of the customer, who may be injured or killed
highest quality. by the product. Profits at this level are known as filthy lucre.
Those at the A level aren’t working for mankind but are “Filthy lucre,” President Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985)
living for mankind, trying to said, “is that had through sin
lift and help others. In addi- SECONDARY
or sinful operations and that
GRADE PRIMARY
tion to making a living, they MOTIVATION which comes from the han-
LEVEL MOTIVATION
are making a life. They have OR RESULT dling of liquor, beer, narcotics
a higher vision than those Love of God and and those other many things
A Income
at lower levels. Because of fellowmen which are displeasing in the
their love for their fellowmen, sight of the Lord.” 1
they define their business in B Money Love of fellowmen

terms of customers’ needs. At F Level

levels B through D, business Indifference to clients Many at the F level may be
C Love of money
or customers
is usually defined in terms of identified at the D level but
products and services. Harm to clients and actually fit better here because
D Filthy lucre
customers of their negative impact on
B Level communities and nations. At
Harm to customers and
At the B level, the primary F Filthy lucre, crime
society, wickedness this level, we find those who
motivation is money, but don’t contribute but only
there is still a love of fellow- take—through organized
men and a genuine desire to provide good products and crime, Internet scams, Ponzi schemes, and so forth (see D&C
services to customers. A B-level company or person could 89:4). At this level, you have murder and elimination of com-
even be an A-level company or person sidetracked by the petition. Secret combinations, which Moroni said would be a
world. If an A-level company goes public, concern for the real threat in our day (see Ether 8:24), operate at this level.
stockholder and the bottom line will almost always force
the company to the B level and sometimes lower. Satan’s Influence
All professions, businesses, and services can be found
C Level at all levels. For example, there are A-level bankers and
At the C level, the love of money is the only motivator. D-level bankers.
The businessman and businesswoman engineer minimal In the movie It’s a Wonderful Life, the Bailey
quality, or the appearance of quality, into their products Brothers Building and Loan Association is an A-level insti-
and services so that they may be competitive and survive, tution where George Bailey and others have a love for their

December 2013 37
 In the movie It’s a Wonderful Life, the Bailey
Brothers Building and Loan Association is an
A-level institution where George Bailey and
others have a love for their fellowmen.

together, and running over” (Luke 6:38), while

the D-level store owner uses “a false balance”
(Proverbs 11:1) tipped in his favor.

LEFT: IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE © 1947 REPUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT INC.® “REPUBLIC PICTURES” AND “IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE” ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. LICENSED THROUGH PARAMOUNT PICTURES.
The Golden Rule
Sometimes we hear stories of D-level peo-
ple who are not playing by the rules and

RIGHT: YOUNG CORN, BY GRANT WOOD, 1931. OIL ON MASONITE PANEL, 24 X 29⅞ IN. COLLECTION OF THE CEDAR RAPIDS COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT, ON LOAN TO THE CEDAR RAPIDS MUSEUM OF ART.
appear to be prospering and outperforming
fellowmen and a genuine desire to help families get out of those who are playing by the rules, almost as if they
low-quality housing and into a respectable home of their had an unfair advantage. In such cases we feel a sense
own. Henry Potter, on the other hand, is a ruthless and of injustice and frustration. (See Jeremiah 12:1; Malachi
uncaring slumlord who thinks nothing of stealing $8,000 3:14–15.)
misplaced in a rolled-up newspaper. Appearances can be deceiving. It may seem that the
At one point, Mr. Potter makes George an offer that wicked are prosperous and happy, but we know that
would pay him many times his current salary and include “wickedness never was happiness” (Alma 41:10). Whom
some attractive benefits, including George’s dream—to do you think the customers would naturally gravitate to—a
travel. George is momentarily mesmerized by the offer George Bailey or a Mr. Potter? Who will be most successful
but soon realizes he is being offered a job by a D-level over the long run?
employer. Upset with himself for even considering the The most basic of all marketing principles is to give
offer, he calls Mr. Potter a scurvy little spider and walks out. the customer what we would want. The Savior taught this
One reason we hear jokes about attorneys is that peo- principle, which we know as the Golden Rule: “Therefore,
ple often consider law a profession that rarely transcends all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you,
the D level. The Book of Mormon says that those at this do ye even so to them, for this is the law and the proph-
level are “learned in all the arts and cunning of the people” ets” (3 Nephi 14:12). Many businesses forget that principle.
(Alma 10:15). Many lawyers, however, are A level—such Some cut corners and produce inferior products. Some are
as Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Elder Quentin L. Cook, and Elder guilty of price fixing. Some are guilty of deceptive advertis-
D. Todd Christofferson, who practiced law prior to their ing. Satan uses these and many other strategies to tempt us
callings to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. to serve mammon.
You can probably think of several D-level politicians, but In Winners Never Cheat, Jon M. Huntsman refers to a
A-level politicians are men like King Benjamin and Mosiah report that ranked attributes recruiters look for in hiring
or George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. These men new personnel. The three highest-ranking traits were
were true patriots whose primary motivation was a love of Christlike attributes—interpersonal skills, an ability to work
God, their fellowmen, and their country. well within a team, and personal integrity.2 As the world
How about carpenters? What kind of carpenter do you becomes increasingly more wicked, it will become more
think the carpenter from Nazareth was? difficult to find people of integrity. I believe the search
In retail, an A-level storeowner gives, in the Savior’s for people of integrity is already drawing more and more
words, a “good measure, pressed down, and shaken recruiters to Latter-day Saints.

38 E n s i g n
Three Helpful Questions “Business!” cries Marley. “Mankind was my business.
Some decisions that face members of the Church are not The common welfare was my business; charity, mercy,
always easy or clear. Here are three questions to help you forbearance, and benevolence were, all, my business. The
make A-level work choices: dealings of my trade were but a drop of water in the com-
1. Can you ask the Lord’s blessings with a clear con- prehensive ocean of my business! . . .
science? From Handbook 2: Administering the Church, “. . . Why did I walk through crowds of fellow-beings
we read, “Members of the Church should endeavor to be with my eyes turned down, and never raise them to that
involved in activities and employment upon which they blessed Star which led the Wise Men to a poor abode?
can in good conscience ask the blessings of the Lord and Were there no poor homes to which its light would have
which are consistent with the principles of the gospel and conducted me?” 5
the teachings of the Savior.” 3 In your pursuit of an income, may you remember, as
2. When questionable products or services are involved, Marley stated, that mankind is your true business and that
is your involvement direct or the Savior is your light to lead
indirect? Can an A-level grocer, you to becoming an A-level
for example, sell coffee and tea individual.
to those customers who know May each of us be guided
nothing of the Word of Wisdom by the Spirit in all our
and for whom it would not be employment decisions—in
a sin? The grocer might do so finding A-level employment
at the request of his customers and in being an A-level
to meet their demands when employee. And may we all
he clearly would never produce use our God-given talents in
coffee himself. His involvement the service of our fellowmen
is indirect. and in making our communi-
3. Does your product or ties and world better places
What you do to make a living and how much you earn
service hurt society? Some to live.
aren’t nearly as important to the Lord as whether you
products and services may be fill your life with good works that positively affect your I bear my testimony of the
detrimental to the individual community and world. Savior and His perfect exam-
while others damage the community. Coffee and tea, for ple. He desires us to be happy and successful—to make
example, would be products that have individual conse- both a living and a life. He said, “I am come that they
quences. Alcohol and pornography, however, have proven might have life, and that they might have it more abun-
to also have negative community consequences. dantly” ( John 10:10). He cares for us and will bless us as
“Pornography damages individual lives, families, and we follow true and correct principles in our dealings with
society. . . . Church members should . . . oppose its pro- others. ◼
duction, dissemination, and use.” 4
From a devotional address given at Brigham Young University–
Idaho on October 12, 2010. For the full address, visit web.byui.edu/
devotionalsandspeeches.
Conclusion
NOTES
In A Christmas Carol, Jacob Marley is living a night- 1. Spencer W. Kimball, in Conference Report, Oct. 1953, 52; see also The
Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball (1982), 356.
mare, bound in the chains he “forged in life . . . link by 2. See Jon M. Huntsman, Winners Never Cheat (2005), 91.
link.” He vocalizes his nightmare in response to a comment 3. Handbook 2: Administering the Church (2010), 21.1.25.
4. Handbook 2, 21.4.9; emphasis added.
by Scrooge that he was always a good man of business. 5. Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol (1906), 21, 22–23.

December 2013 39
THE GOOD
of Repentance
NEWS
There is great joy in heaven
whenever we repent in
sincerity of heart.

By Brian D. Garner
Church Correlation Department

DETAIL FROM CHRIST AND THE RICH YOUNG RULER, BY HEINRICH HOFMANN, COURTESY OF C. HARRISON CONROY CO.; PHOTOGRAPHS FROM ISTOCKPHOTO/THINKSTOCK
hroughout all dispensations and in
all scripture, we hear the Savior’s plea
for all people everywhere to repent.
The Doctrine and Covenants refers to the “gos-
pel of repentance” (D&C 84:27). And when
we remember that “the word gospel means
‘good news’” (Bible Dictionary, “Gospels”),
the principle of repentance emerges in a very
positive light.1
Some, however, see repentance as a punish-
ment they must endure for their sins. This view
is the exact opposite of the truth; repentance is
among our greatest blessings. What can com-
pare to the freedom, confidence, peace, and joy
that come from complete repentance and for-
giveness? And this feeling is not ours alone, for
the Lord has said that “great is his joy in the soul
that repenteth” (D&C 18:13; emphasis added)
and that there is great “joy . . . in heaven over
one sinner that repenteth” (Luke 15:7).
What has the Savior Himself taught about the
importance and requirements of repentance?
And what blessings has He promised to those
who repent?

40 E n s i g n
The seeds of repentance are
sown, grow, and blossom in
the hope that a merciful Savior
will forgive and heal us.

December 2013 41
 The Savior Has Said “Nevertheless, he that repents and
We Must Repent does the commandments of the Lord
“The Father commandeth all men, shall be forgiven” (D&C 1:31–32).
everywhere, to repent,” the Savior So our Lord lovingly invites,
told the Nephites (3 Nephi 11:32). “Remember, God is merciful; there-
Jesus commanded several early fore, repent of that which thou hast
Latter-day Saints to “say nothing done” (D&C 3:10).
but repentance unto this genera-
tion” (D&C 6:9; 11:9). And He has The Savior Has Taught Us
explained that “the thing which will How to Repent
be of the most worth unto [us] will be The Lord has often explained
to declare repentance” (D&C 16:6). how we may repent by pairing the
The importance of repentance is word repent with other requirements
better understood when we realize of repentance. For example, to the
that it is a key that unlocks the bless- Nephites He said, “Whoso repenteth
ings of the Savior’s atoning sacrifice and cometh unto me as a little child”
(see Alma 7:13–14). He told His (3 Nephi 9:22; emphasis added), “If ye
Nephite disciples, “Nothing entereth will repent and return unto me with
into [the Father’s] rest save it be those full purpose of heart” (3 Nephi 10:6;
who have washed their garments in emphasis added), and “If they will
Our Lord lovingly my blood, because of their faith, repent and hearken unto my words,
invites, “Remember, and the repentance of all their sins” and harden not their hearts” (3 Nephi
God is merciful; (3 Nephi 27:19). And He explained to 21:22; emphasis added). To Father
therefore, repent of Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer Adam He said, “Turn unto me, and
that Christ “suffered the pain of all hearken unto my voice, and believe,
that which thou hast
men, that all men might repent,” and and repent of all thy transgressions,
done” (D&C 3:10).
that “he hath risen again from the and be baptized” (Moses 6:52;
dead, that he might bring all men unto emphasis added). In modern scripture
him, on conditions of repentance” the Lord has said, “He that repents
(D&C 18:11–12). and does the commandments of the
To Adam the Lord declared, “Teach Lord” (D&C 1:32; emphasis added),
it unto your children, that all men, “Repent and walk more uprightly
everywhere, must repent, or they can in before me” (D&C 5:21; emphasis
nowise inherit the kingdom of God . . . added), and “Unto him that repenteth
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY JOHN LUKE

or dwell in his presence” (Moses 6:57). and sanctifieth himself before the
This principle with a promise is Lord shall be given eternal life” (D&C
certain: 133:62; emphasis added).
“I the Lord cannot look upon sin Two of the more challenging ele-
with the least degree of allowance; ments of repentance are found in

42 E n s i g n
 ANSWERING QUESTIONS
What are the consequences of
delaying repentance?

The prophet Amulek taught that if

we procrastinate “the day of [our]
the Lord’s teachings to the Saints in merciful Savior will forgive and heal repentance even until death,” we
Missouri: “By this ye may know if a us. He has promised: “I will have “become subjected to the spirit
man repenteth of his sins—behold, he compassion upon you” (D&C 64:2); of the devil” and the Spirit of the
will confess them and forsake them” “[I know] the weakness of man and Lord withdraws from us (see Alma
(D&C 58:43). He clarified this when how to succor them who are tempted” 34:35).
He taught Alma the Elder that the sin- (D&C 62:1); “[I will suit my] mercies President Henry B. Eyring, First
ner must “confess his sins before thee according to the conditions of the Counselor in the First Presidency,
[a priesthood leader] and me [God]” children of men” (D&C 46:15); “My has stated:
(Mosiah 26:29). Confession is contrary bowels are filled with compassion “Any choice to delay repentance
to our personal pride and requires towards [you]” (D&C 101:9); “I will be gives [Satan] the chance to steal
great humility. merciful unto your weakness” (D&C happiness from one of the spirit
Forsaking or discontinuing a sin 38:14); “As often as my people repent children of our Heavenly Father. . . .
is more difficult when that sin is a will I forgive them” (Mosiah 26:30); “. . . Today is always a better day
part of our natural inclination or has and “I, the Lord, remember [your sins] to repent than any tomorrow. . . .
become an addictive habit. However, no more” (D&C 58:42). Sin has its debilitating effects on us.
the Savior’s repeated instruction is In the spirit of His mercy, the Savior The very faith we need to repent is
clear: “Go, and sin no more” ( John has provided some additional joyful weakened by delay. The choice to
8:11; see also D&C 6:35). The diffi- ways to petition Him for forgive- continue in sin diminishes our faith
culty of forsaking sin is magnified by ness. He has promised forgiveness and lessens our right to claim the
the possibility of facing that tempta- if we “forgive men their trespasses” Holy Ghost as our companion and
tion every day for the rest of our lives. (Matthew 6:14), hear the words of comforter. . . .
To those who struggle with con- His servants (see D&C 50:36), “go to “One of the questions we must
fession and forsaking sin, consider the house of prayer and offer up thy ask of our Heavenly Father in
the Lord’s counsel as you seek added sacraments upon my holy day” (D&C private prayer is this: ‘What have
strength: “Howbeit this kind goeth 59:9), share the gospel with others I done today, or not done, which
not out but by prayer and fasting” (see D&C 4:2; 31:3–5), and study the displeases Thee? If I can only know,
(Matthew 17:21; see also Isaiah 58:6). scriptures (see D&C 84:57–61). I will repent with all my heart
Fasting can lead to increased spiritual After doing all they can to repent, without delay.’ That humble prayer
power and self-control, especially some worry whether they have been will be answered. And the answers
when combined with prayer and forgiven. The Lord has said that will surely include the assurance
scripture study. Remember, also, this when we refuse to repent, He “will that asking today was better than
encouraging promise from the Savior: withdraw [His] Spirit” (Helaman 13:8) waiting to ask tomorrow” (“Do
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and and that as we repent, He will “pour Not Delay,” Ensign, Nov. 1999, 34).
are heavy laden, and I will give you out [His] spirit” upon us (Proverbs
rest” (Matthew 11:28). 1:23). Therefore, when we regularly
feel the influence of the Holy Ghost
The Savior Will Be Merciful in our lives, we can be assured that
The seeds of repentance are sown, the Lord has forgiven us (see Mosiah
grow, and blossom in the hope that a 4:1–3). We can move forward with

December 2013 43
 confidence in our Redeemer and look “For behold, . . . whosoever is bap-
to a bright future. tized . . . unto repentance . . . him will
As a mission president I had the I freely forgive.
blessing of conducting many baptis- “For it is I that taketh upon me the
mal interviews. A primary purpose sins of the world. . . .
of the interview is to determine if “. . . I am [your] Redeemer. . . .
the individual has repented. I was “Yea, and as often as my people
impressed by how many individuals repent will I forgive them their tres-
wanted to feel God’s forgiveness for passes against me” (Mosiah 26:22–23,
their sins. Some had committed very 26, 30).
serious sins. I remember one sister When our Savior walked the earth
who was so weighed down with in mortality, He sat at dinner with a
past sins that she wept throughout group of social outcasts known as
the interview, barely able to speak. I publicans and sinners. A group of
could see her tragic past noticeably Pharisees criticized Him for eating
manifested in her countenance. Yet and drinking with them. Jesus taught
I felt she had truly repented of her these critics about repentance and His
sins. Months after her baptism, I Atonement:
attended her stake conference. I saw “They that are whole need not a
her in the congregation but barely physician; but they that are sick.
Jesus testified: “For recognized her—her countenance “I came not to call the righteous,
behold, . . . whoso- was so different. Her eyes were but sinners to repentance” (Luke
ever is baptized . . . bright with the light of the gospel. I 5:31–32).
unto repentance . . . was struck by the immense relief and For those who have felt the
joy that repentance and forgiveness redeeming power and blessing of
him will I freely
had brought her and the obvious repentance, the words of this hymn
forgive. For it is I that
physical effects this had on her strike a solemn chord:
taketh upon me the
countenance.
sins of the world” Jesus, the very thought of thee
When we consider what the Savior
(Mosiah 26:22–23). With sweetness fills my breast. . . .
Himself has taught about repentance,
To those who fall, how kind
we better understand the role of
thou art!
CHRIST IN GETHSEMANE, BY HARRY ANDERSON © IRI

repentance in our Father’s plan of

How good to those who seek! 2 ◼
happiness. Repentance connects us
to a loving, merciful Savior and His NOTES
Atonement. The more we recognize 1. Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum
of the Twelve Apostles has said, “Repentance
that our Heavenly Father and His Son is a divine gift, and there should be a smile
on our faces when we speak of it” (“The
have made the blessing of repentance Divine Gift of Repentance,” Ensign, Nov.
possible, the more our gratitude for 2011, 38).
2. “Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee,” Hymns,
Them will deepen. Jesus testified: no. 141.

44 E n s i g n
 Willing Sacrifice
By Kerry Bennett

A quiet knock comes at the door,

A contrite sinner ushered in.
One panged with sorrow and regrets
Yearns to abandon worldly chains
And free himself from Satan’s grasp.
A chosen man, ordained of God,
Listens to the heartfelt plea for
Deliverance and clemency.
He, like the Savior, longs to help
This wayward lamb rejoin the flock.
And while he serves, his helpmate waits
As Heaven heals a wounded soul.
Her offering—a patient heart
Unseen by everyone but Him
Who notices the widow’s mite.
THE AUTHOR LIVES IN ALBERTA, CANADA. APPLE PIE, BY WALTER RANE © IRI.

December 2013 45
REAL-LIFE CHANGES
Through the Savior’s healing
power, many inmates are
making progress in becom- INSIDE
PRISON
ing what Heavenly Father
wants them to become.

By S. Brent Scharman
WALLS
T
he image of prison life might
conjure up words like account-
ability, punishment, structure,
and discipline. There is truth in all of
those associations. But just as relevant
are words like repentance, Atonement,
Spirit, and conversion.
As a high councilor and later a
bishop serving a correctional services
unit, I have come to discover that
prisons are places of paradox: harsh-
ness combines with opportunities for
spiritual growth. I’ve had the chance
to observe what happens when
inmates choose to participate in the
Church where it is available. Some of
the benefits are easy to see: inmates
make better use of their time, asso-
ciate with others who are improving
their lives, learn correct behavior
through the modeling of ecclesias-
tical leaders, and learn gospel doc-
trines and principles. Other benefits
are less visible but may be more
enduring, such as when the inmate’s
soul is enlarged or expanded (see
Alma 5:9; 32:28).
Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

46 E n s i g n
 referred to the process of internal change that each of Savior’s help in bringing about real change. The feelings
us—inmates or not—experience: “The Final Judgment in the meeting that day were of hope, optimism, and love.
is not just an evaluation of a sum total of good and evil Of course, it would be naïve to believe that even with
acts—what we have done. It is an acknowledgment of their sincerity, all these inmates would turn their lives
the final effect of our acts and thoughts—what we have around. Nevertheless, it would be unnecessarily cynical
become.” 1 This is good news: many within prisons, jails, and uncharitable to doubt that they could succeed.
and halfway houses are learning from their bad choices Another evidence of the conversion process comes
and are becoming what Heavenly Father would have in observing the communication network—both formal
them become. and informal—in prison systems. Inmates have ways of
John (name has been changed) was raised in a home finding out how those who have been released are doing.
where alcohol and drugs played a significant part in daily LDS inmates rejoice to hear of the success of one who
family life. As an adolescent, John got into more trouble is “making it on the outside.” What separates those who
than his peers, and by his early 20s he’d been in and out succeed from those who don’t? The answer is predictable:
of jail several times. At 25, he was in prison, in a section Those who change find God, new friends, and a job. One
with limited contact, facing a 15-year sentence. But in the inmate incarcerated in Utah said, “From my cell I can see
time between John’s sentencing and the day I met him, he the Jordan River Temple. I’ve made a promise to Heavenly
had been introduced to the gospel of Jesus Christ. On his Father, my family, and myself that when I’m released I will
own, John had borrowed the Bible and latter-day scrip- work as hard as I can to change my life. Getting a temple
tures from the library. His gospel knowledge was obvious, recommend will be tangible evidence that my Heavenly
but more important was his spiritual maturity. His remorse Father and the Savior have accepted my repentance. We
for prior behavior, love for the Savior, and confidence in look forward to the day when we can stand on the temple
the Atonement were powerful witnesses of the workings grounds together and see how far I’ve come.”
of the Spirit in one who was incarcerated. It may be easy for those in prison to feel like giving up.
Many inmates wrestle with addictions. How they cope The words of President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in
upon release is critical to their success. Some facilities the First Presidency, provide hope:
make treatment or self-help programs available. These “There will surely be some who hear my voice who will
words, written by a group of recovering addicts, from A have this thought come into their minds: ‘But the tempta-
Guide to Addiction Recovery and Healing are relevant: tions are too great for me. I have resisted as long as I can.
“We have known great sorrow, but we have seen the For me, the commandments are too hard. The standard is
power of the Savior turn our most devastating defeats too high.’
into glorious spiritual victories. We who once lived with “That is not so. The Savior is our Advocate with the
daily depression, anxiety, fear, and debilitating anger now Father. He knows our weaknesses. He knows how to suc-
experience joy and peace. We have witnessed miracles cor those who are tempted.” 3
in our own lives and in the lives of others who were It is because of the Savior that all of us can make real
ensnared in addiction.” 2 These inspiring words are not progress—experience true conversion—in becoming what
idealistic theory. They convey realistic hope to inmates Heavenly Father wants us to become. ◼
who are accessing the Savior’s healing power. The author lives in Utah, USA.
ILLUSTRATION BY ERIC P. JOHNSEN

I’m not sure I’ve ever felt the Spirit more strongly than NOTES
in a meeting where approximately 100 inmates were 1. Dallin H. Oaks, “The Challenge to Become,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, 32.
2. Addiction Recovery Program: A Guide to Addiction Recovery and
celebrating Easter. The choir was surprisingly capable and Healing [2005], v. This booklet (item no. 36764) is available online at
ldsfamilyservices.org, through Church distribution centers, or through
demonstrated genuine emotion and sincerity. Inmates store.lds.org.
gave from-the-heart testimonials about their need for the 3. Henry B. Eyring, “As a Child,” Ensign, May 2006, 17.

December 2013 47
 Founded in 1938, Deseret Industries is now in
its 75th year of helping individuals become more
self-reliant and grow into their best selves.

By Ryan Carr

A
Church Magazines
lthough Deseret Industries opened its first thrift
store 75 years ago, many Church members still
think of Deseret Industries as simply a place to
donate or purchase used clothing, furniture, electronics,
and other items. While this is true, all of the work that
goes into sorting, cleaning, pricing, and displaying these
items is a means to an inspired end: helping Deseret
Industries’ employees—or associates, as they’re called—
become more self-reliant and learn skills that will benefit
them in future employment.
Leland Hardy, director of Deseret Industries, describes
the work this way: “Whereas most businesses use people
to move or build things, Deseret Industries uses things to
move and build people.”
Associates come to Deseret Industries with various
barriers to employment: some are learning to speak
English; some have disabilities; some need more educa-
tion; some have had problems with addictions; some have
not learned the work ethic it takes to succeed at a job; and
some are just down on their luck. The list of challenges
is long, but Deseret Industries’ professional development
staff welcomes them all.

48 E n s i g n
DOING A CHRISTLIKE WORK
Working with Associates Individually
One key to Deseret Industries’ success is that its
professional development staff works with associates
individually to help them become the person they
desire to become. Deseret Industries does this by
surrounding associates with a team that is dedicated
to helping them set and reach their goals:
• A development specialist—an expert in voca-
tional counseling (often a professionally licensed
counselor)—helps the associate identify and
work toward achieving his or her career goals.
• A job coach meets with the associate at least
weekly to set and review goals tailored to the
associate’s needs and aspirations.
• Assigned by the bishop, a mentor from the
associate’s ward gives encouragement and
support. The mentor attends a quarterly meeting
with the associate and his or her development
team to assess progress and set goals. The men-
tor also reports back to the bishop.
• When associates are ready to leave Deseret
Industries, an employment specialist from LDS
Employment Resource Services gives associates
individualized job-placement assistance. If they
need additional help, Deseret Industries may
provide an advanced-placement course in which
associates are paid to plan and carry out their
own job-finding program. The specialist provides
these associates with materials, knowledge, and
individual coaching to help them find a job.

December 2013 49
 Many others join in this effort as well, including local busi- arranges for the associate to work and train at that
nesses, community agencies, and education programs. The business for up to three months. Deseret Industries
associate’s family members, Church leaders, home teachers, may even pay part or all of the associate’s wages
and visiting teachers also provide help and encouragement. during that time. This gives the associate time to
When applicable to the associate’s situation, Deseret learn the job, develop valuable work experience,
Industries can provide these services: and become familiar with the industry.

• Schooling assistance: Deseret Industries helps

Success Stories
locate resources that provide scholarships to qualify-
This approach has been remarkably successful in help-
ing associates to help them achieve short-term educa-
ing people reach their goals and transform their lives. Last
tional goals.
year, after being referred by their bishops, more than 8,000
• Business partnerships: When an associate has associates worked at Deseret Industries’ 42 stores in the
identified a particular type of job and has worked western United States and, in Salt Lake City, at a manufac-
with the job coach to prepare himself or herself turing facility and the Humanitarian Center. What follows
to work in that job, Deseret Industries seeks out a are just three of the many success stories Deseret Industries
business that employs people in that type of job and sees each year.

Lifted to a Better Life

When Penita Fiorelli and her family emigrated from
Tonga to Utah to be closer to relatives, she couldn’t
speak English. But she and her family moved to an area
with many Tongan Latter-day Saints, and they met the
branch president and some other Church members.
Penita tried to find work but was unsuccessful, so the
branch president referred her to the training program
at Deseret Industries. As part of her training there, she

LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH BY CRAIG DIMOND; RIGHT: PHOTOGRAPH BY RHONDA HARRIS

attended English classes and received tutoring. As her
English improved, she worked on becoming a certified
nurse assistant (CNA). With the help of a flexible work
schedule at Deseret Industries, she was able to attend
school and pass the state certification test—in English.
During this time, she was attending church with the
Tongan branch, and after three months of working at
Deseret Industries, she was baptized, along with her hus-
band. Their children were baptized a few months later.
She says, “The example of our branch members and the
staff and associates at Deseret Industries has brought us
true happiness and has lifted us to a better life.”
 IF YOU DON’T HAVE A
DESERET INDUSTRIES NEAR YOU

T here are other ways to help people overcome barri-

ers to employment. The following suggestions may
be helpful to bishops, welfare specialists, ward councils,
and stake and ward employment specialists:

• Visit deseretindustries​.lds​.org and ldsjobs​.org for

several resources.
• Meet with your ward or stake employment
specialist and the ward member who needs help,
and identify barriers limiting the member from
finding employment.
• Help the member establish a career plan and set
goals according to the SMART model: specific, mea-
surable, action-oriented, realistic, and time-limited.
• Connect the member with a mentor. A mentor can
be a home or visiting teacher or anyone in the ward
Hitting a Home Run who encourages the member. Ideally, mentors have
Al Mosley was enjoying his job managing a restau- experience in the member’s desired field of work or
rant in Southern California until he had a stroke. He education.
was discouraged that he couldn’t return to the job he • Use existing community resources. Local job
had worked so hard to obtain, but he felt hope when postings, scholarships, vocational rehabilitation,
he learned he could return to work again—at Deseret and educational coursework or technical training
Industries. are often available.
“I was excited at having an opportunity to have a
second chance but wondering if I was capable,” he
recalls. Despite his physical limitations, he worked
with a good attitude, having always believed in doing
his best. Deseret Industries gave him shift leadership
responsibilities. “I discovered that I was able to work A PLACE OF SUPPORT
up to do things I never thought I would do again,” he “During the past 75 years, more than a
says. “I was also able to learn new skills in organization hundred thousand people have entered
and merchandising.” into Deseret Industries’ training pro-
gram and discovered here a place of
Before long, he was offered a position with the San
nurturing and support—a place where
Diego Padres, a major league baseball team, running
they can develop and discover the per-
one of its food departments. He explains the progress he sons they were capable of becoming.”
has made: “I may have been presented a curveball in life President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the
because of my stroke, but because of my experience at First Presidency, at the dedication of the Sandy,
Utah, Deseret Industries, Aug. 14, 2013.
D.I., I have the opportunity to hit home runs.”

December 2013 51
 Letting Go of the Past THE MANY FACES
Before working at Deseret Industries, Miriah Pace OF DESERET INDUSTRIES
from Idaho had struggled with a drug addiction for many
years, which landed her in prison for 18 months. After her D eseret Industries benefits the community and the
people it serves in many ways:

release, she began attending college. Five years passed • Offers people opportunities to give and serve. More
without a relapse. Then her brother, grandmother, and than 50,000 people volunteered their time at Deseret
best friend all died within a short period of time. She fell Industries in 2012.
back into her old drug habits but then sought help at an • Promotes recycling and reuse of items, thus encour-
in-patient treatment center. aging thrift. Over 7.5 million donations of used goods
It was during this difficult time that her bishop were made in 2012.
referred her to Deseret Industries. “I was in dire need • Provides low-cost items to the community and,
of structure and stability,” she says. Finding work there through bishops’ orders, no-cost items to the needy.
helped, but she was still grieving and started using • Strengthens community programs by providing no-
drugs again. Although this caused her attendance at cost goods to agencies that help needy individuals,
Deseret Industries to suffer, she persisted in the program such as orphanages, battered-women’s shelters, and
because she looked forward to the weekly devotionals, homeless shelters. Over 560 community agencies
where she heard prayers and gospel messages. “I began served more than 50,000 people in 2012.
to pray for hope,” she recalls. • Participates in humanitarian outreach: donated 8.7
At work her skills improved to the point that a local million pounds of clothing and assembled more than
employer partnered with Deseret Industries to offer 330,000 humanitarian kits in 2012.
Miriah a position as an editor and office assistant. She
• Teaches English as a second language.
now helps manage the organization’s website and edit its
• Helps refugees gain education and work experience
peer-reviewed publication.
as they try to assimilate into a new culture.
Last year she achieved two important goals: she grad-
uated with an associate degree and went to the temple to
receive her own endowment. She says her experience at
Deseret Industries helped change her life: “I have let go of
LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH BY CRAIG DIMOND; RIGHT: PHOTOGRAPH BY ERIN PEW

the past and only look forward. I am excited about life. I

now know that I am a child of God because He loved me
when I couldn’t love myself. I know Heavenly Father has
a plan for me.”
Deseret Industries helps people develop hope when
they are discouraged, confidence when doubting, and
self-reliance when struggling. Are these not the things the
Savior would do if He were here? Would He not “suc-
cor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and
strengthen the feeble knees”? (D&C 81:5). This Christlike
work is the work of Deseret Industries. ◼

December 2013 53
 Hundreds of sermons
by early Church leaders
have finally been tran-
scribed from shorthand
for the first time.

54 E n s i g n
 LOST
PHOTOGRAPH OF ISAAC PITMAN COURTESY OF THE PITMAN COLLECTION, UNIVERSITY OF BATH; STILL-LIFE PHOTOGRAPHY BY WELDEN C. ANDERSEN

By Matthew S. McBride

I
Church History Department

n 1837, an Englishman named Isaac and others were transcribed and published in
Pitman published a small book entitled the Deseret News and later in the Journal of
Stenographic Sound-Hand. In his book Discourses. These published sermons are the
he introduced a new form of shorthand that source of most of the quotations from lead-
would allow a skilled reporter to record ers such as Brigham Young and John Taylor
speakers verbatim. In that same year, another in the Teachings of Presidents of the Church
Englishman, George D. Watt, became the first books used in Relief Society and Melchizedek
baptized member of The Church of Jesus Priesthood lessons.
Christ of Latter-day Saints in Great Britain. Hundreds of sermons, however, were
Before immigrating to Nauvoo, Illinois, in never transcribed, so their content remained
1842, Watt learned Pitman’s new shorthand unknown for nearly 150 years. Assistant
system, a skill that would have a tremendous Church Historian Richard E. Turley Jr.
influence on the future of the Church. explains: “We’ve had the shorthand of
Though clerks and diarists such as Wilford George D. Watt and others in our collec-
Woodruff, William Clayton, and Thomas tion for many years, but they haven’t
Bullock frantically took down notes of the been accessible to researchers because
Prophet Joseph Smith’s words as he spoke, very few people could read them.
we have no word-for-word accounts of his We’re fortunate to have with us on
sermons. The best we can do is combine our staff a woman named LaJean
these varying reports to get a reasonable but Carruth, who has taught herself to
incomplete sense of what he said. But begin- read the shorthand of George D.
ning in 1852, George D. Watt began taking Watt and has been able to open up
down the sermons of early Church leaders this treasure chest of material.”
such as Brigham Young, Parley P. and Orson LaJean Purcell Carruth, shorthand
Pratt, Lorenzo Snow, and many others verba- specialist in the Church History
tim. Through his efforts, we have available to Department, has painstakingly
us a wealth of wisdom, counsel, and gospel transcribed many of these sermons
teaching from these powerful speakers. after becoming familiar with Isaac
Many of the sermons taken down by Watt Pitman’s system. “I went out to the George D. Watt, 1849

December 2013 55
BYU library stacks and found a book my teeth. Laid them on the window
on Pitman shorthand and just studied and forgot them.’” She adds, “The
it,” she says. shorthand gives us the closest we have
Over the course of several years, to their personalities and how they dif-
Carruth has transcribed many sig- fer. We get their humanness and what
nificant but previously unknown they really were. And I love it.”
sermons, including Brigham Young’s Earlier this year, the Church
words at the funeral of Mary Fielding
Smith, an eyewitness account of the
History Department began publishing
excerpts from some of these newly T he Lord watches over you.
You need not suppose for
a moment [that] the Lord’s
events at Carthage Jail by John Taylor, transcribed sermons on its website,
eye [is] not upon you. The

HEBER C. KIMBALL BY JOHN WILLARD CLAWSON; PHOTOGRAPH OF PARLEY P. PRATT COURTESY OF CHURCH HISTORY LIBRARY
a series of sermons on the importance history​.lds​.org, in a series titled “Lost angels [are] round about you

PHOTOGRAPHS BY WELDEN C. ANDERSEN, EXCEPT WHERE NOTED; PORTRAITS OF BRIGHAM YOUNG, JOHN TAYLOR, AND
of the Book of Mormon by Orson Sermons.” Now anyone can enjoy and they will take care of
Pratt, and many more. The transcrip- the stirring words of these pioneer you, and you may be peace-
tions provide details of the early preachers. ful and contented. . . . Every
missions of Parley P. Pratt to Chile and Brother Turley shared his estima- good man and woman . . .
[is] in the hands of [the] Lord.
Lorenzo Snow to Italy and of Brigham tion of the significance of these ser-
They are before him, his eye
Young’s conversion to the gospel. mons: “As far as I’m concerned, the upon them, his angels round
They also yield insights into the unpublished sermons of these early about them that they might
personalities of the speakers. Carruth Church leaders represent one of the endure afflictions, suffer pain
shares a humorous example: “Heber C. most important previously untapped [and] buffeting by Satan, pass
Kimball got up one day and he said, sources of Church history from the through scenes of afflictions
enough to wring their natural
‘Excuse me if I don’t talk proper. I left 19th century that we have.” ◼
hearts out of them, compara-
tively. Yet God [will] take care
LaJean Purcell Carruth, of them” (Sept. 23, 1852,
shorthand specialist in the Mary Fielding Smith’s funeral).
Church History Department,
has taught herself Pitman
shorthand and painstak-
ingly transcribed many
19th-century sermons for
the first time.

WHAT IS SHORTHAND?

S horthand systems consisted

of a series of markings
corresponding to words or
sounds. Clerks and reporters
used these systems in the days
before sound recordings in
order to quickly capture spoken
language in writing.
I will tell [you] my
brethren, when I was
a lad just out of my
teens—about 1830—I
read a book that was
but little known in the
world, although now,
probably, it is in half [a]
dozen [of the] principal
languages of the earth,
W hen I went into the
water [of] baptism I
made [a] covenant I would
and it was entitled the
forsake the world with all
Book of Mormon, and
[that] pertains to it, and cleave
had many predictions
unto the Lord God with all my
in it that are plain and
heart all my days. This is the
easy to be understood,
covenant that I made, to turn
and the spirit and power
away from the world. That is
of God bore witness to
the covenant you made, or the
my heart of their truth. . . . Well
one you should have made.
now, these prophecies interested
Now, will you fulfill it?” (Oct.
me I assure you. They made
7, 1853).
an impression upon my mind
[that] never has been effaced.
. . . I knew in me [in a way] that
[would have] been no stronger
if I had seen Jesus Christ in his
glorified body and heard [the]
same words from his own lips”
(Oct. 31, 1852).

To read

W
excerpts from
herever the gospel
of Jesus Christ exists, transcribed
there exists revelation; and sermons, visit
where there is no revelation history​.lds​.org/​
there is no gospel” lost-sermons.
(Oct. 30, 1859).

December 2013 57
Indexing
IS VITAL
Indexing makes more
records accessible online
so members can find
and take family names
to the temple.

By Jennifer Grace Jones

A
Church Magazines

small note on the keyboard read, “This computer “Many of you may think family history work is to be
is reserved for Samuel at 5:00 a.m.” In response performed primarily by older people. But I know of
to his stake president’s challenge for the stake to no age limit described in the scriptures or guidelines
index one million names, 14-year-old Samuel B. of Utah announced by Church leaders restricting this important
started getting up at 5:00 a.m. so that he could index before service to mature adults. . . .
school. With one computer in the home and six siblings “I invite the young people of the Church to learn about
with homework to do, Samuel had to sacrifice some sleep and experience the Spirit of Elijah.” 1
in order to get time on the computer.
But Samuel’s enthusiasm spread to the rest of his family. Quick and Easy Family History
Soon his brother Nathan sacrificed basketball time and his Indexing is an easy way for everyone to get started
sister Ivyllyn sacrificed reading time in order to index. “I’ve with family history and experience the Spirit of Elijah.
never been challenged as much by my children,” Samuel’s Governments and churches have kept records of people
father says. “Until they got involved, I thought indexing was and families for centuries, but these records have been
hard. They taught me that it could be easy and fun.” The tough to access and time-consuming to sort through.
following New Year’s Eve, the children were rushing to Previously, people who were geographically separated
finish their yearly indexing goals before midnight. from their ancestral lands had to travel to those places and
Thousands of miles away, the Lanuza family in wade through the records, having no assurance that they
Guatemala caught the same enthusiasm. This family of would find a single family name.
nine—five children, Mom, Dad, Grandma, and Grandpa— The introduction of FamilySearch indexing in 2006
share one computer. With the children using the computer accelerated family history research. Names once hidden in
for homework, Mom finishing her studies at the university, handwritten paper records and stored in distant reposito-
and Dad working, the computer is always in high demand, ries have been transcribed (indexed) and are now instantly
and each family member takes turns indexing. Together, searchable by computer. To accomplish this, volunteer
the family indexed more than 37,000 records in 2011. indexers download to their home computers “batches”
These children and their families have risen to the of records containing about 10 to 50 names. They type
challenge Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the the names, dates, and other information into the Family
Twelve Apostles extended to the youth of the Church Search database, thus enabling the creation of searchable
in October 2011: electronic indexes.

58 E n s i g n
 Before the launch of FamilySearch indexing, it could Specific Situations, Specific Blessings
take years to create a searchable index for even one set The First Presidency has stated, “Members are encour-
of records using previous name-extraction techniques. aged to participate in FamilySearch indexing which is vital
Michael Judson, an indexing manager for FamilySearch, to family history and temple work.” 2 Members from around
says it took 11 years to index the Freedman Bank Records the world are responding to this counsel and receiving
(United States records of freed slaves who set up bank remarkable blessings.
accounts). Now he estimates it would take only months.
Volunteers worldwide have indexed more than one
billion records since 2006, but there’s a lot more work to
do. Billions of additional records are waiting in the Granite
Mountain Records Vault in Salt Lake City, Utah. And beyond
that are the records found in other archives across the globe,
which the Family History Department is photographing at
the rate of about 35 million digital images per month.
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY LESLIE NILSSON
 The Saints in Ukraine are working hard to create elec- withstand the bad influences of this world. . . . [My chil-
tronic indexes that will expedite family history research in dren] have the power of God from this work.”
Eastern Europe. The Rudenko family in Kyiv is setting a Many members are discovering that indexing provides a
powerful example. They sacrifice to pay for the Internet so meaningful service opportunity, regardless of skill or sit-
they and their children can index names. Sister Rudenko uation. Malinda Perry of Utah, USA, was in a car accident
leaves the family laptop on the kitchen table so she can when she was 24 years old that left her paralyzed from
index when she has spare moments during the day. She the neck down. As she adjusted to this new lifestyle, Sister
types names with one hand while holding a baby with the Perry prayed about ways she could serve. She received
other. Their 16-year-old son and 12-year-old daughter have her answer when Rayleen Anderson from the stake Relief
also become regular indexers, and the family sometimes Society presidency visited her and taught her how to index.
visits the government archives to research family names. The Sister Perry now spends time at the computer every day
Rudenko family regularly submits names to the temple and with a stick taped to her hand, moving it just enough to

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ALEKSEY VIKTOROVICH DOBROVOLSKY

performs the ordinances for those names, sometimes going type. She indexes a batch of names daily.
to the temple multiple times a week. “Instead of focusing on myself, like I used to, my focus
Sister Rudenko speaks of the blessings she has received has changed to serving others,” Sister Perry says. “I love
through family history work: “I believe that indexing and the Lord, and I love extending His blessings to others
family history work protect us. I am promised in my patri- through indexing.”
archal blessing that doing this work will protect me and my While listening to a presentation on family history,
children. Their minds will be clean, and they will be able to stake president David Pickup in Chorley, England, felt an
impression that indexing could help the members of his
stake increase their desire to worship in the temple. But

60 E n s i g n
he wondered, how would something that looked like com- MORE THAN JUST DATA ENTRY
mon data entry lead people to the temple?
He decided to try indexing and found that it brought
an added measure of the Spirit of Elijah into his life. For
A t first indexing may appear similar to mundane
data entry, but experienced indexers often testify
that indexing is a spiritual pursuit that blesses lives on
him, indexing has become a “refining” work. “You cannot both sides of the veil.
index without thinking about not only the names being Below are some suggestions that will help indexing
indexed but also your own family names,” he says. become a spiritually fulfilling experience:
President Pickup challenged the members of his stake to
1. Begin with prayer. You may want to pray specifi-
use indexing as a way to participate in family history work.
cally to experience the Spirit of Elijah so that your
Within a short time, he and other stake leaders noticed a
heart will turn toward your ancestors.
significant increase in temple recommend worthiness and
2. Eliminate distractions, including television or
sacrament meeting attendance. They noticed that the mem-
music that could detract from the Spirit.
bers who participated in indexing were developing a desire
3. Index with family or friends. Not only will this
to take their own family names to the temple.
give you help to read difficult handwriting, but
Seventeen-year-old Mackenzie H. took President Pickup’s
it may also open the door for you to discuss your
challenge to heart and began indexing, and she helped her
own family history.
siblings, parents, and grandparents become involved as well.
4. Remember that every name you index represents
In less than two years, Mackenzie indexed more than 44,000
another individual who can be found by living
names. More importantly, Mackenzie and her family felt
descendants and receive ordinances by proxy in
prompted to seek out their own family names, take them to
the temple.
the temple, and participate in the saving ordinances.
5. Remember that the Lord will help you. Through
Indexing helped the members of the Chorley stake by
the Savior you can overcome any challenge you
bringing an added measure of the Spirit into their lives and by
may experience with indexing (see 2 Corinthians
giving them the tools they needed to take their family names
12:9–10).
to the temple. “You don’t need to be temple worthy to index,”
President Pickup says, “but when you index, it will refine you, Indexing is available in Dutch, English, French,

and you will want to be temple worthy, and you will want German, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Portuguese, Russian,

to go to the temple, and you will want to do work for your Spanish, and Swedish. For more information, visit

ancestors. . . . I know this because it happened to me.” familysearch​.org/​indexing.

Indexing Helps Everyone

The Lord has promised, “Behold, I will hasten my work in
its time” (D&C 88:73). Indexing is one way the Lord is fulfilling
that promise. It’s possible for people to find their own ances-
tors and leave others to find theirs, but indexing facilitates and
accelerates family history research for everyone. “The Lord has
given us the technology for massive improvements in finding
names,” Brother Judson says. “You’re not just working on your NOTES
own family history now; indexing is a collective effort to help 1. David A. Bednar, “The Hearts of the Children Shall Turn,” Ensign,
Nov. 2011, 26.
all Heavenly Father’s children.” ◼ 2. First Presidency letter, Feb. 29, 2012.

December 2013 61
 Africa
Continent of Bright Hope

By Richard M. Romney
Church Magazines

The faith and

obedience of Latter-
day Saints in Africa
and Madagascar
set an example for
Church members
everywhere.

I
t is easy to love the people of Africa,” 1 said Elder
Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve
Apostles in Freetown, Sierra Leone, during an assign-
ment that also included visits to Liberia and Ghana.
He said that the faith and obedience of African Latter-
day Saints, born of their love for the gospel, set an
example for all members of the Church.
PHOTOGRAPHS BY RICHARD M. ROMNEY

December 2013 63
The covenant of baptism opens the door
to many blessings, and so does faithful
study of the gospel.

It is impressive, Elder Holland said, “to see how much

the gospel means to them, to see what they have done
with it, how they cherish it, to see their faithfulness in
tithing and in service, in going to the temple—I think of
the temple as the crowning image—and then to see them
raising their children in the Church and sending their sons
and daughters on missions. It is wonderful evidence of
their faithfulness.” 2

Before Your Eyes

Elder Holland noted that, with the exception of South
Africa (where a stake was organized in 1970), the Church
has been in Africa for less than 30 years. Because of that,
the Church here has been “born before your eyes, born
in a day,” and “Africa is one of those special places where
you get to see the glory of the Lord, the wonder and the
miracle of the Restoration, quite literally unfold before
your eyes.” 3
He said he will always remember being in Accra, Ghana,
with President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008), when he
announced that a temple would be built there. “[The peo-
ple] stood and cheered, wept and danced, held each other,
and cried. And in a way, that spirit country. Mozambique is also head-
still continues. That is my love for the quarters of the Mozambique Maputo
Africans—it is their uncompromised Mission, which includes the country
joy in the gospel. Most have had so of Angola.6
little in their lives of material goods,
but when they got the gospel, they Young but Growing
just embraced it. . . . And they still do. “We are young here,” 7 Elder
They are doing it to this day.” 4 Russell M. Nelson, also of the
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, said
Prophecies Fulfilled while visiting Madagascar, Malawi,
Other prophets and apostles who and Kenya. “We are watching the
have fulfilled assignments in Africa Lord move upon this great continent
speak of the continent as a place of Africa to bless the people . . . with
where the prophecies of the Lord the truth, the light of the gospel,
are literally being fulfilled. [including] the ordinances of salvation
“The African people are a kind and and exaltation.” 8 He said he was par-
patient people,” said Elder Richard G. ticularly impressed with the strength
Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve of local Church leadership in Africa:
Apostles following a visit with mem- “I can’t tell you how grateful we are
bers of the Church in Mozambique for these [local] leaders, who give of
and Nigeria. “They don’t have a lot of their time and talent in the service
income or resources that allow them of the Lord to bless the lives of these
financially to do things, so they just people.” 9
do them out of sheer effort. They will Elder Nelson is “very optimistic”
walk miles and miles and miles to about the future of the Church and
accomplish something that they are the people in Africa and Madagascar
prompted to do by the Holy Ghost because their faith is stronger than
to further the work.” 5 their challenges. “You truly are chil-
Elder Scott noted that in 1999, dren of God, children of the covenant
when he dedicated Mozambique for Israel, prepared to meet the Lord
the preaching of the gospel, there Jesus Christ and God, our Eternal
were only 40 members there, and Father, and dwell in Their presence
the country was part of the South with [your] families,” 10 he said at a
Africa Johannesburg Mission. At the meeting in Madagascar. Elder Nelson
time of his second visit, in January also stated, “These are people of great
2011, the Church in Mozambique potential. They have faith. They have
had grown to more than 5,000 mem- a love of the Lord, and they have all
bers spread throughout two districts that is required to make people really
and 19 branches meeting across the strong.” 11

December 2013 65
Striving to always remember the Savior,
members are strengthened and renewed
by partaking of the sacrament.

During an interview in Nairobi, Kenya, Elder Nelson

commented, “We’ve got Latter-day Saint chapels. We have a
stake here [in] Nairobi. We had a stake conference today. It
was a thrill to meet with the people. More than a thousand
people gathered, [and they were] so reverent [and had a]
beautiful choir, [an] excellent stake presidency, [and a] patri-
arch on the stand. How can I express my joy when I see
such progress?” 12

Despite Adversity
Elder Holland said the Church in Africa is thriving even
in the face of challenges. As an example, he said, “While
there was a raging civil war in Côte d’Ivoire [Ivory Coast],
the Latter-day Saints . . . just kept coming to the temple.
It’s a great tribute to them. I stand in awe.” 13
Speaking of both Sierra Leone and Liberia, Elder Holland
said, “Because they’ve had such a bloody, war-torn, brutal
recent past, that’s one of the reasons the gospel is taking
hold so dramatically. They’ve seen what life ought not to be,
and now with the missionaries and the members testifying,
they’ve seen what it can be. Heaven has been able to turn
[their trials] into a blessing, and they’re lifting themselves out
of political disarray and civil strife.” 14 believe the growth we are now seeing
In addition, Elder Holland pointed in Africa is part of the fulfillment of
out that the growth of the Church in the Lord’s promise. African Latter-day
Zimbabwe has continued despite diffi- Saints are emerging with faith. They
cult times in recent years: “The Church are on the move. They are meeting the
has blossomed. We have growth, we challenge of receiving the gospel and
have stakes, we have missions. That’s making it obvious in their lives.” 17 ◼
what’s happening all over Africa.” 15
NOTES
1. Jeffrey R. Holland, in “Emerging with Faith in
Africa,” www.lds.org/prophets-and-apostles/
Preaching the Gospel unto-all-the-world/emerging-with-faith-in-
One key to the Church’s success africa.
2. Jeffrey R. Holland, in “Emerging with Faith
in Africa, Elder Holland said, is that in Africa.”
3. Jeffrey R. Holland, in “Emerging with Faith
“we don’t get involved in conspicu- in Africa.”
ous, sociopolitical issues. We preach 4. Jeffrey R. Holland, in “Emerging with Faith
in Africa.”
the gospel. We are concerned about 5. Richard G. Scott, in “Mormons in Africa:
A Bright Land of Hope,” mormonnewsroom.
justice, and we are concerned about org/article/mormons-africa-bright-land-hope.
social opportunity and equity. But we 6. See “‘Jesus Christ Lives’ Elder Scott Testifies
in Mozambique,” lds.org/prophets-and-
think [the answers are found in the apostles/unto-all-the-world/jesus-christ- AFRICA SOUTHEAST AND WEST AREAS*
lives-elder-scott-testifies-in-mozambique. Members: 381,417
gospel], so we just preach the gospel. 7. Russell M. Nelson, in video in “Learn of the
Stakes: 70
And it has been true elsewhere and it Savior, Saints in Madagascar and Malawi Are
Told,” lds.org/prophets-and-apostles/unto- Wards: 508
is true in Africa, that people get that all-the-world/learn-of-the-savior-saints-in- Missions: 22
madagascar-and-malawi-are-told.
insight, blessing, and light in their Districts: 60
8. Russell M. Nelson, in “Elder Nelson
Completes Trip to Africa in Kenya,” lds.org/ Branches: 646
lives, and suddenly things start to
church/news/elder-nelson-completes-trip-to- Headquarters: Johannesburg, South Africa, and
change and their lives are blessed.” 16 africa-in-kenya.
Accra, Ghana
9. Russell M. Nelson, in video in Heather
Whittle Wrigley, “Elder Nelson Visits *As of April 2013.
The Lord’s Promise Madagascar, Dedicates Malawi,” Oct. 28,
2011, lds.org/church/news/elder-nelson-
Elder Holland quoted the Savior, visits-madagascar-dedicates-malawi. TEMPLES
10. Russell M. Nelson, in video in “Learn of Operating
who said, “The last shall be first, and the Savior, Saints in Madagascar and Malawi
Are Told.” Aba Nigeria, dedicated August 7, 2005
the first last” (Matthew 20:16).
11. Russell M. Nelson, in video in “Elder Nelson Accra Ghana, dedicated January 11, 2004
“In some ways,” he said, “the gospel Visits Madagascar, Dedicates Malawi.” Johannesburg South Africa, dedicated
12. Russell M. Nelson, in video in “Family
is late in coming to Africa, at least as Success Comes from Following the Savior,” August 24–25, 1985
we could do it on the Lord’s timetable lds.org/prophets-and-apostles/unto-all-the- Announced
world/family-success-comes-from-following-
—and it was the Lord’s timetable, I’m the-savior. Durban South Africa
13. Jeffrey R. Holland, in “Emerging with Faith Kinshasa Democratic Republic of Congo
quick to affirm. It is only compara- in Africa.”
tively recently that the Africans have 14. Jeffrey R. Holland, in “Emerging with Faith
in Africa.”
begun to get missions and mission- 15. Jeffrey R. Holland, in “Emerging with Faith
in Africa.”
aries, the blessings of the priesthood, 16. Jeffrey R. Holland, in “Emerging with Faith
and so forth. It’s a big continent, and in Africa.”
17. Jeffrey R. Holland, in “Emerging with Faith
we still have a long way to go. But I in Africa.”

December 2013 67
 Mzungu
FROM

TO Friend
A simple act of service from a senior missionary left a lasting impression.

By David Dickson
Church Magazines

A
mzungu in a tree? What was a mzungu doing up grew to love her,” says Sister Harris. “She helped teach us
in a tree? And what was this tool he was using to the ways of Uganda.”
cut through branches so quickly? The more they got to know Mary, the more their friend-
Such questions ran through the minds of Ugandans ship deepened. They learned quickly about her husband,
watching a foreigner (mzungu) using a battery-powered Godfrey—a good man who nevertheless kept his distance
reciprocating saw to trim dead limbs from a massive shade from members of the Church, especially missionaries.
tree. The tool itself was a marvel to the locals. Many of “He wouldn’t let missionaries in his home,” explains Sister
them had never seen anything like it before. Harris. However, Mary still wanted Godfrey to meet them.
But even more amazing to them was the mzungu him- She invited the Harrises over for a brief visit. “We had no
self. Elder Roland Harris, a senior missionary from Utah, expectations,” Sister Harris explains. “We told Godfrey that
USA, trimmed branch after branch, cutting dead limbs from Mary is our dear friend now, and we want to know her fam-
lofty perches. The people below were amazed that a for- ily.” Godfrey chatted with them but didn’t really warm up to
eigner would do such a thing for one of their own. the idea of getting to know them more than as acquaintances.
Ultimately, Elder Harris’s simple act of service would That all changed the day Elder Harris showed up with
mark the beginning of a friendship with someone who power tools, a ladder, and an offer to serve.
had wanted nothing to do with the Church or anyone in it.
The Turning Point
Getting to Know Godfrey Godfrey and Mary’s home was surrounded by towering
Elder Roland Harris and Sister Janet Harris were serving shade trees full of dead branches and overgrown limbs that
a 23-month mission in the Uganda Kampala Mission. Sister stretched precariously above their roof.
Harris, a registered nurse, was called as medical adviser to Elder Harris set to work straightaway. He spent four
the missionaries. Elder Harris, a retired construction super- hours in the treetops lopping off limbs up to 10 inches (25
intendent who can fix almost anything in the universe, cm) in diameter. The task was definitely overdue. “I was
cared for Church facilities and mission vehicles. at least 20 feet (6 m) off the ground,” Elder Harris says. As
Shortly after arriving in Uganda, Elder and Sister Harris hired people walked by, they could hardly believe their eyes.
a local Church member, Mary, to assist in cleaning their home. For his part, Godfrey was astounded. “He thanked us
Mary had been baptized three years earlier. “We just profusely,” says Sister Harris. Even relatively simple activities

68 E n s i g n
 like tree trimming can carry serious common taxi is a boda boda, a motorcycle
risk. “They have no money for that can often be seen carrying as many as six
medical attention,” Sister Harris people at once.
explains. If someone fell out of a tree and broke “In the dark, riding a boda boda is danger-
an arm or leg, for example, they would likely ous,” Sister Harris explains. “They crossed the
have to heal on their own. Nile on a boda boda in the dark.”
That large pile of tree clippings on the ground After traveling dangerous roads in the
laid the foundation for a cherished friendship. dead of night at significant personal expense,
“Godfrey would come out and greet us from Godfrey and Mary showed up to “mourn with
then on,” Elder Harris says. Godfrey and Mary those that mourn” and “comfort those that stand
also began welcoming other Church members in need of comfort” (Mosiah 18:9). That evening,
into their home. compassion and love truly came full circle. Mary
and Godfrey were the ones providing service. “It
Crossing the Nile was quite remarkable,” says Sister Harris. Mary
Elder and Sister Harris grew closer to Godfrey suggested that they all kneel together in prayer.
and Mary as the months rolled by. Ultimately, this Godfrey joined without hesitation.
friendship became a strength and support for Elder and Sister Harris went to California,
the Harrises when an unexpected tragedy struck USA, to attend Brad’s funeral. Afterward they
halfway through their mission. They received returned to Uganda to complete their mission.
word that their son Brad had been killed in a Now back home in Utah, Roland and Janet
freeway accident. Harris still remain close with Mary and Godfrey.
As soon as Mary and Godfrey learned about Service is a key that can unlock doors oth-
ILLUSTRATION BY GREG NEWBOLD

this, they both put on their best clothes and erwise barred to us. As President Thomas S.
headed out on a treacherous journey to be at Monson teaches, “When selfless service elimi-
the side of their dear friends. nates selfish striving, the power of God brings
In Uganda, few people own a vehicle. They to pass His purposes” (“Willing and Worthy to
either walk or hire a taxi. By far, the most Serve,” Ensign, May 2012, 68). ◼

December 2013 69
 Articles ofFaith
THE

and the Life of

JosephSmith
The Articles of Faith can help
us—and especially our children
and grandchildren—see the
Prophet Joseph Smith’s life in a
meaningful framework.

By John W. Welch

I
Professor of Law at Brigham Young University and Editor in Chief of BYU Studies

N PONDERING HOW I might make the history of Joseph Smith come to

life for my grandchildren, the thirteen Articles of Faith came to mind as a
helpful connector. It soon became exciting to see how well the Articles of
Faith brought to light the main stages in Joseph Smith’s prophetic mission and
inspired life.
Especially for children, who know these crystal clear declarations of belief,
the Articles of Faith provide a familiar framework within which to understand
Joseph Smith’s labors between 1820 and 1842, the year he wrote the Articles
BROTHER JOSEPH, BY DAVID LINDSLEY © 1998
of Faith in his famous Wentworth Letter.1
In that letter, the Prophet looked back over his remarkable life and summa-
rized the rise and progress of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
In the Articles of Faith, which close the letter, he summarized some key doc-
trines of the restored gospel—doctrines that we can associate with certain
events in his history. Consider some ways in which the Articles of Faith and
the life of Joseph Smith are aligned.

70 E n s i g n
1. We believe in God, the
Eternal Father, and in His Son,
Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.

1820
2. We believe that men will
be punished for their own sins, and
not for Adam’s transgression.
3. We believe that through the Atonement of
Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to
the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.

1829
Joseph’s mission as a prophet began In the next several years, Joseph
in the spring of 1820 in a grove dealt with some ordinary follies of
near his family’s log home, south youth; he also learned some extra-
of Palmyra, New York, USA. There, ordinary lessons about account-
filled with the Holy Ghost, he plainly ability, especially when Martin
learned that the Father and the Son Harris lost the 116 pages of the
are separate beings. It is no surprise Book of Mormon manuscript and,
that the Articles of Faith also begin as a result, the power to translate
where Joseph began. was taken from Joseph for a
season. Through these experiences,
he learned firsthand the founda-
tional principles of agency, choice, FIRST FRUITS, BY JEFFREY HEIN
THE FIRST VISION, BY GARY L. KAPP, MAY NOT BE COPIED

and accountability.

After obtaining the Lord’s forgiveness, Joseph was again

blessed to translate the Book of Mormon. He learned
from its pages the plan of salvation and the true doc-
trine of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Around the time
when the printing of the Book of Mormon was getting
under way in the summer of 1829, Joseph received a
sublime revelation directed to Martin Harris and con-
In translat- taining the words of Jesus Himself regarding His eternal
ing the Book
sacrifice, which opens the powers of the Atonement
of Mormon,
Joseph Smith to all: “For behold, I God, have suffered these things
learned for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent”
more about (D&C 19:16).
Christ’s
Atonement.

With the First Vision, Joseph

THE MARTIN HARRIS FARM, BY AL ROUNDS © 1984

Smith learned the true nature

of the Godhead. Martin Harris
mortgaged his
farm (right) to
print the Book
of Mormon.
During this time
he also learned
a lot about
repentance.
4. We believe that the first prin-
ciples and ordinances of the Gospel
are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ;
second, Repentance; third, Baptism by
5. We believe that a man must be called of
6. We believe in the same orga-
nization that existed in the Primitive
immersion for the remission of sins; God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands Church, namely, apostles, prophets,
fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift by those who are in authority, to preach the pastors, teachers, evangelists, and
of the Holy Ghost. Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof. so forth.

1829 1830
As he translated 3 Nephi 11:21–27, Joseph learned With power and authority, Joseph
how Jesus gave his disciples the authority to Smith next organized the Church,
baptize and taught them the words that needed to following the same pattern that
DETAIL FROM THE BIBLE AND THE BOOK OF MORMON

be used in the baptismal prayer. Joseph Smith and existed in the ancient Church. This
Oliver Cowdery, who was acting as scribe, imme- process began in Fayette, New York,
TESTIFY OF CHRIST, BY GREG K. OLSEN

diately realized that they had not been baptized at the Peter Whitmer home on April 6,
in this manner or by such authority. They went out 1830, and it continued as the offices
into the woods near Joseph and Emma’s home and quorums of the priesthood were
in Harmony, Pennsylvania, where they had been organized, especially during the first
working. There, on May 15, 1829, John the Baptist five years of Joseph Smith’s time in
appeared, laid his hands on them, and in the name Kirtland, Ohio, between 1831 and
of Christ conferred upon them the Priesthood of 1836.
From the teachings of the Book of Aaron, giving them the authority to baptize. Soon
Mormon, Joseph also came to know after, as they translated 3 Nephi 18:36–37, they
the first principles and ordinances further learned that the Lord had given His disciples
of the gospel. These elements are a second power, namely the power to bestow the
consistently grouped together in the gift of the Holy Ghost. Peter, James, and John soon
Book of Mormon. For example, to the came to ordain Joseph and Oliver to the higher
people gathered in the land Bountiful Melchizedek Priesthood.
the resurrected Lord testified: “I bear
record that the Father commandeth
all men, everywhere, to repent and
believe in me. And whoso believeth in
me, and is baptized, the same shall be
saved. . . . [And the Father] will visit
THE RESTORATION OF THE MELCHIZEDEK PRIESTHOOD, BY LIZ LEMON SWINDLE, MAY NOT BE COPIED

him with fire and with the Holy Ghost” After the
(3 Nephi 11:32–33, 35). priesthood
was restored
(left),
Joseph could
organize
the Church
(above).

72 E n s i g n
 7. We believe in the gift of
tongues, prophecy, revelation,
8. We believe the Bible to be the word of
God as far as it is translated correctly; we also
9. We believe all that God
has revealed, all that He does now
reveal, and we believe that He will
yet reveal many great and important
visions, healing, interpretation believe the Book of Mormon to be the word things pertaining to the Kingdom
of tongues, and so forth. of God. of God.

1835
In Kirtland, the Saints were Also in Kirtland and in nearby Hiram, Ohio
blessed repeatedly with tremen- (mainly from 1831 to July 2, 1833), the Prophet
dous outpourings of the gifts of worked on the Joseph Smith Translation of the
the Spirit. All of those gifts that Bible, reinforcing his belief in the Bible as the
are mentioned in the seventh word of God and deepening his understanding
article of faith were seen in rich of the importance of having the Bible translated
abundance in Kirtland, especially correctly. Going hand in hand with the Bible, the
as the Saints prepared for and Book of Mormon

JOSEPH TRANSLATING THE BIBLE, BY ROBERT T. BARRETT © 1982

experienced the dedication of the had also been
Kirtland Temple in April 1836. accepted as the
word of God, and
Throughout the Kirtland experi-
in 1832 the Saints
ence, the heavens resounded with
were commanded to
the outpouring of visions and
remember the Book
revelations, many of which were
At the dedication of of Mormon, which
THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST IS ORGANIZED, 1830, BY JOSEPH

published in the 1835 edition of

the Kirtland Temple they were repri-
(below) there was a the Doctrine and Covenants. The
manded for treating
great outpouring of the ninth article of faith reflects this
gifts of the Spirit. lightly (see D&C
experience of continuing revela-
84:54–58). Also at
tion and looks forward as Joseph
this time the administration of the Church con-
received instruction from the Lord
BRICKEY, MAY NOT BE COPIED

tinued to put into practice numerous teachings

to leave Kirtland early in 1838.
and instructions in the Book of Mormon,2 and in
1837 the second edition of the Book of Mormon
was published.

December 2013 73
10. We believe in the literal gath-
ering of Israel and in the restoration of the
Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem)
will be built upon the American continent;
that Christ will reign personally upon the
11. We claim the privilege of
worshiping Almighty God according
to the dictates of our own conscience,
and allow all men the same privilege,
12. We believe in being
subject to kings, presidents, rulers,
earth; and, that the earth will be renewed let them worship how, where, or and magistrates, in obeying, honor-
and receive its paradisiacal glory. what they may. ing, and sustaining the law.

1838 1840
Next, Joseph Smith and his followers moved Even though their Missouri land rights
west early in 1838 to Missouri. There the had been trampled upon and their civil
Saints hoped to lay a foundation for the liberties flagrantly abridged, Joseph
establishment of Zion. They expected Christ and the Saints did not strike back. They
to reign on the earth, and they sang fervent believed in the rule of law and trusted
hymns of hope that the earth would be that it would lead to the best result. As
renewed and would again be a garden place. they moved to Nauvoo, they petitioned
At Far West, Missouri, on April 11, 1838, the the president of the United States
Lord called David W. Patten of the Quorum for redress, worked through legal
of the Twelve Apostles to prepare to go forth Joseph and the Saints soon learned that channels to purchase new land, and
“to testify of my name and bear glad tidings conflicts in Missouri would violently interfere established the city of Nauvoo with its
unto all the world” (D&C 114:1), expanding with their exercise of religious freedom. The charter issued by the state legislature.
missionary work worldwide in gathering and Saints were driven at gunpoint from Missouri They followed the law in submitting to
restoring the tribes of Israel. in the bitter cold of winter in 1839, while federal judges and state magistrates,
Joseph was imprisoned in Liberty Jail for even at great cost and personal risk.
more than four unimaginably brutal months.
In Illinois, the Saints established Nauvoo
as a place of religious liberty and tolerance,
HURRAH, HURRAH, HURRAH FOR ISRAEL, BY ROBERT T. BARRETT,

with all people in the city being protected by

a city ordinance passed on March 1, 1841,
guaranteeing that people of all faiths would
have “free toleration, and equal privileges,
in this city.” 3
MAY NOT BE COPIED

Through their experiences in

Missouri (below) the Saints knew
Leaving for a mission the importance of religious freedom
to England in the fall for all.
of 1839, Brigham
LEAVING MISSOURI, BY C. C. A. CHRISTENSEN

Young and Heber C.

Kimball, though ill,
waved to their families
and shouted, “Hurrah,
hurrah, hurrah for
Israel!” The gather-
ing of Israel greatly
expanded during this
time.

74 E n s i g n
 13. We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevo-

JOSEPH IN NAUVOO, 1840, BY THEODORE S. GORKA

lent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may
say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all
things, we hope all things, we have endured many things,
and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything
virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek
after these things.

1842
There in Nauvoo, the Prophet rejoiced in the noble values of IN FEBRUARY 1842, as Joseph ended his letter to John
Christian life. These are the principles upon which the city of Wentworth with the list we now call the Articles of Faith,
Nauvoo was founded. Indeed, he could also say that he and he summarized not only the points in that landmark let-
the Saints had followed the admonition of Paul and prophet- ter but also in his dedicated life. In the letter, he had just
ically looked forward to yet further trials and trails of tears
told Wentworth about his First Vision in 1820 and about
moving westward, hoping to be able to endure all things. In
all of this, and in the highest ambitions of the building of the the Book of Mormon’s coming forth to be “united with
City Beautiful, with the construction of the splendid Nauvoo the Bible.” He had then spoken of those who were “called
Temple already under way, Joseph concluded these Articles and ordained by the Spirit of revelation and prophecy . . .
of Faith with a declaration of the ideals that would to preach as the Spirit gave them utterance” and about
bring thousands of converts to the gospel of the many who were thus “brought to repentance, were
Jesus Christ.
immersed in the water, and were filled with the Holy Ghost
by the laying on of hands.” He had told of the organiza-
tion of the Church as taught in ancient times by our Savior
and of the many who had seen “visions and prophesied”
and who had healed the sick “by the laying on of hands.”
Ultimately he had spoken about the many hardships the
Saints had “had to endure,” and he had fervently testified
that this “persecution has not stopped the progress of truth,
but has only added fuel to the flame,” and that it would “go
forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated
every continent.” 4
Thus, the Articles of Faith are not abstract, theoretical, or
theological propositions. They reflect real life. They crystal-
lized out of the daily efforts and yearly struggles of faithful
JOSEPH SMITH AT THE NAUVOO TEMPLE, BY GARY E. SMITH © 1975

men, women, and children to do the will of God and to

build His kingdom here on earth. Gems like these, strung
together on the tether of eternal life, can be fully appreci-
ated only in that same way, by being hearers and doers of
the word and following the pathways of righteous living. ◼
NOTES
1. The Prophet wrote what came to be known as the Wentworth Letter in re-
sponse to a request from John Wentworth, a newspaper editor, and George
Barstow, a lawyer and historian. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church:
Joseph Smith (2007), 435–47; see also History of the Church, 4:535–41.
2. See John W. Welch, “The Book of Mormon as the Keystone of Church
Administration,” in A Firm Foundation: Church Organization and
Administration, ed. David J. Whittaker and Arnold K. Garr (2011), 15–57.
Joseph Smith wrote the Articles of Faith while the Nauvoo 3. History of the Church, 4:306.
Temple was under construction. He and the Saints had 4. Teachings: Joseph Smith, 441, 442, 444.
endured many things to get to that point. December 2013 75
L AT T E R - DAY S A I N T VO I C E S

THE GREATEST MIRACLE

O n a bright September day our

youngest daughter, Erica, was in
a serious car accident. She was flown
that Erica was missing from my side.
I panicked until I caught a flash of her
white dress near the nativity. Then
had been full of questions about life
and death—questions that didn’t
seem to matter as much before Erica’s
to the hospital, and after hours of my panic shifted from fear for her death. As I pondered the Resurrection
emergency surgery, we received the welfare to fear that she would disrupt and the Crucifixion, I identified with
terrible news: our beautiful, viva- the scene. I was about to call out to Mary. She loved her newborn Son,
cious, 17-year-old daughter had died. her, but I paused and watched as she and she later endured terrible pain
The next few months were agony made her way to the manger. and anguish as she witnessed His
for us. We endured her birthday and Erica quietly knelt next to Mary and suffering and death. Christ was not
Thanksgiving and braced ourselves looked up at her as if to get her per- spared the cross, and Mary was not
for our first Christmas without her. mission. Then Erica reached out and spared her grief.
People warned us that the holidays tenderly caressed the sleeping baby. At Christmas we celebrate the
would be difficult, but no amount of I was not the only one who noticed. beginning of the Savior’s life on
warning could have prepared us. Others soon quieted and watched as earth, but for me, His birth will now
Besides feeling overwhelming she knelt close to the baby. A tender always be wrapped up with His suf-
sorrow and despair, I was jealous feeling permeated the group as they fering, death, and Resurrection—the
of other families who were together realized that this baby was the Christ Atonement. Because the Savior broke
and happily celebrating. I bitterly child for Erica. the bands of death, I know that
wondered, “Why us? Why weren’t we In my grief, this Christmas mem- Erica’s death will not be final. That is
granted a miracle like the ones others ory brought feelings of peace the miracle to be thankful
speak about?” and comfort as I recalled for—the greatest miracle
Amid my despair, I remembered my young daughter’s of all time. ◼
a time that our ward held an activ- devotion. My mind Ellen Knell, Utah, USA
ity called “Christmas in Bethlehem.”
Ward members came dressed up as if
they were living at the time Jesus was
born. Erica, who was four years old A tender feeling
permeated
the group as they
at the time, wore a hand-me-down
long, white dress and a scarf wrapped realized that this
around her head. The culmination of baby was the
the evening was a reenactment of the Christ child for
Nativity in a mock stable decorated Erica.
with bales of hay and a manger. A
young couple with their newborn
played the parts of Mary, Joseph,
and the baby Jesus.
As we gathered around
the nativity, I noticed

76 E n s i g n
 AN ANSWER TO HIS PRAYERS

I was not feeling the Christmas spirit.

It was December of my senior year in
high school, and college applications
for the teacher and his family.
Jessica and I visited classrooms and
championed our cause. The response
anonymously left on their porch.
A few months later, Jessica and
I were asked to teach a seminar on
and my final Laurel project loomed was enormous. Teachers, staff, and stu- service projects. We explained what
before me. I hoped to find a volunteer dents gave toys and money to help the we had done without mentioning
opportunity that would flesh out my family. We soon surpassed our toy goal, the teacher’s name. A girl raised her
college applications and double as which amazed the charity. We also col- hand and stood. Tears flowed as she
my Laurel project. Luckily my stu- lected more than $1,000 for the family. spoke. The teacher was her uncle, and
dent council adviser asked my friend As we carefully wrapped the gifts she described how much our service
Jessica and me if we would organize a we had collected and purchased, I had meant to him. She said it was an
school toy drive for a local charity. realized that the testimony of service answer to his prayers.
I delegated most of the work to the I was receiving was just as great as What a joy it was that holiday
project committee. I had them create a the gifts we were giving. I can’t season to come together in heartfelt
bulletin board featuring a large ther- express the thrill I felt as we service and know we had made
mometer that indicated the number secretly watched the family a difference. ◼
of toys donated. We thought that was discover the gifts we had Lindsey Leavitt, Nevada, USA
enough advertising, and we spent each

A
lunch period collecting donations. s we wrapped
Students donated few toys, however, the gifts, I
and the thermometer remained low. realized that the
Strangely, our adviser began set- testimony of service
ting aside some toys. When Jessica I was receiving
and I asked what she planned to do was just as great
with them, she told us that a teacher as the gifts we
at the school had recently been diag- were giving.
nosed with cancer. After struggling to
teach while going through treatment,
he had decided to take a leave from
work. With the holidays approaching
and medical bills piling up, his family
wouldn’t have much of a Christmas.
Our adviser suggested that we wrap
the set-aside presents for them.
ILLUSTRATIONS BY BRADLEY CLARK

My heart was touched. I had been

looking at my service project as a
means to serve only myself, not others.
I decided to triple our goal for donated
toys and to start a monetary collection

77
I CAN DO THIS!

It was evening during the Christmas

season, and a heavy blanket of
snow lay on the ground. For months
you know how difficult this is for me?
The Allied forces killed my husband
in the war, and bombing raids killed
Mormon is true. I can do this! Elder
Atkin, please help me walk.”
We made the long walk to the
my companion and I had braved the many other family members.” gate, Ingeborg’s breath coming hard
cold German weather, knocked on She touched her leg. “I was hit with as we passed the guards. We changed
doors, and handed out copies of the shrapnel from a sulfur bomb. My leg into our white clothing and found the
Book of Mormon. Even then, 15 years will never heal. I don’t know if I can pool at the base. The pool became a
after World War II had ended, many go in there.” sacred place, and peace settled over
Germans were wary of Americans. We sat silent as her words sunk in us. The distress on Ingeborg’s face
But that night Ingeborg Bienmuller and the bus came to a stop. Ingeborg changed to joy as she stepped into
was to be baptized. On the long bus sat rigid. My heart pounded. I prayed the water and was baptized a mem-
ride to the United States Air Force she wouldn’t turn away in fear. ber of the Church.
base, however, she was quiet. I sensed She then rose from her seat and “The night the elders left a Book of
her growing feeling of distress. declared, “Heavenly Father has given Mormon with me, I was thrilled,” she
As we approached the bus stop, me a testimony of the truthfulness of told us as we rode home. “I stayed
Ingeborg turned to us and said, “Do the Restoration. I know the Book of up reading until I came to Mosiah

I
18, where Alma invites the people
ngeborg turned to us and said, “Do you know how difficult this is for me?”
to be baptized: ‘Behold, here are the
waters of Mormon . . . and now, as
ye are desirous to come into the fold
of God, and to be called his people,
. . . what have you against being
baptized?’” (Mosiah 18:8, 10).
She softly continued, “I fell asleep
reading those words, and I had a
dream. I was standing near a beauti-
ful body of water like the Waters of
Mormon. On the other side of the
water stood people dressed in white —
my family! My husband, who had
been killed in the war, was smiling
and beckoning me to be baptized.”
That night Sister Bienmuller
became a member of the Würzburg
Branch and one of the many in
Germany who eventually overcame
their fears and joined the Church. ◼
Roy Atkin, California, USA

78 E n s i g n
WE CAME FOR OUR GIFTS

W hen I was a member of our

district presidency, I helped
coordinate an activity in which the
take us to the city, a young girl came
up to me with a plastic ball that had
been heavily used and was scratched.
old running toward us, holding his
little brother by the hand. When they
arrived, the older boy said, “We came
members of our district donated toys I held the ball in my hand, wonder- for our gifts.” His innocence left me
to poor children living in the city of ing who would have donated such without words and touched my heart.
Soacha, Colombia. We had a wonder- a beat-up ball. With some disdain I I explained to him that the gifts
ful response from all the members. tossed it under the seat. were gone. He responded, “It doesn’t
Not all the gifts were new, but most When we arrived, our youth began matter if my gift isn’t here, but my
were in good condition. singing Christmas hymns. Their music, little brother’s must be here.”
As we finished loading the gifts on along with their Christmas hats, attracted Then I thought of the ball I had
the buses that would a large group of children. When we tossed under my seat. I told the boys
started handing out the gifts, those I did have one more gift but that it
children called other children. Soon was a humble one.
we had given out all our gifts. “It doesn’t matter what it is,” he
When we were about to leave, said. “That is the one.”
I saw a boy about eight years I got on the bus and found the ball.

I
When I gave it to the little boy, his joy
silently hoped that
overflowed. Jumping with gratitude,
I would be as eager
he said, “A ball! That is the present I
to bless others as the
asked the Christ child to bring me.” He
older boy was to bless
continued to dance around happily as
his brother.
he and his older brother went away
with their treasured gift.
I quietly stood there and wept as
a warm feeling of peace and grati-
tude enveloped me. The concern and
selfless care the older brother gave to
his younger brother touched me, and
I silently hoped that I would be as
eager to bless others as the older boy
was to bless his brother.
As the boys happily walked away, I
was reminded of the Savior’s love for
us. He did not even forget a little boy
on a mountainside who had asked for
a simple ball for Christmas. ◼
Walter Emilio Posada Rodriguez,
Colombia

December 2013 79
UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN

THE JOURNEY
HOME
By Heather Whittle Wrigley

M y bus ride home from work began like

any other. Within five minutes, I had
leaned my head against the window and soon
and kindly gave the man directions and then,
before getting off at her stop, told him about
the next few stops down the road. Long after
the halting and starting of the bus was rocking
When we don’t I arrived home, I was troubled by my reaction
me to sleep. I was still adjusting to all the new know which way to criticize compared to this woman’s loving
responsibilities that had come with my recent to turn, Jesus guidance.
marriage while working and taking classes Christ shows us I realized that I was like the bus driver—
full-time. Some days I couldn’t help but sleep I don’t know my way through life any better
the way.
during the entire bus ride to work and back. than the bus driver knew his new route. Both
As I drifted in and out of sleep, I heard of us were on an unfamiliar road. I’m sure
voices calling out directions. Soon I realized he was grateful that someone who had been
that the new bus driver had to be directed down that road before was willing to offer
around every turn, down each street, and patient directions about what lay ahead.
to every bus stop along the 50-mile (80 km) Christ does the same for us. When we
route. don’t know which way to turn, His example
Knowing that it would probably take even shows us the way. When we have questions,
longer than the usual hour and a half to reach He lovingly supplies the answers. How many
home, I immediately became irritated. Unkind times would He, weary after traveling a long

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY LLOYD ELDREDGE; RIGHT: PHOTOGRAPH FROM ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK

thoughts about the driver’s competence crowded distance, seek to fulfill the needs of others?
my mind. Voices calling out directions contin- Since that day, we’ve had a few new bus
ued to cut into my attempts to sleep. drivers. Occasionally they have needed some
Before long, however, I noticed the yelling direction, and thanks to the example shown
had stopped. I looked up to see a woman gen- me by a loving woman and our Savior, I have
tly directing the bus driver from her seat two been willing to give it. ◼
rows ahead of me. I watched as she sweetly The author lives in Utah, USA.

80 E n s i g n
INSIGHTS

In what ways is Jesus Christ the Light of the World?

“[Jesus Christ] is the Light of Bethlehem, born of Mary, His mortal mother, and His Father, Almighty God. . . . He is the Light of the
Atonement fulfilled in the Garden of Gethsemane and on Golgotha, who took upon Himself the sins of the world, that all mankind may
obtain eternal salvation. He is the Light of the empty tomb, the resurrected Lord with a glorified body of flesh and bone, who broke the
bands of death and gained an everlasting victory over the grave. . . . He is my Light, my Redeemer, my Savior—and yours.”

Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “Out of Darkness into His Marvelous Light,” Ensign, May 2002, 71, 72.
AGift to the Savior
“We are simply asking all members to pray, knowing that
if every member, young and old, will reach out to just ‘one’
between now and Christmas, millions will feel the love of the
Lord Jesus Christ. And what a wonderful gift to the Savior.”

Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve

Apostles, October 2013 general conference