Living Angels

Dear family:

This morning, as I walked along the canal bank after a night of sporadic and fitful sleep, struggling with my personal weaknesses, I was inspired by the words of two wonderful apostles, literal messengers from God, who spoke peace to my troubled heart.

I encourage each of you to re-read or listen again to the talks Elders Joseph Wirthlin and Jeffrey Holland gave in October general conference.

Using tender and often humorous accounts from his own life, Elder Wirthlin encouraged us to love the challenges we face in life:

"Although my mother has long since passed to her eternal reward, her words are always with me. I still remember her advice to me given on that day long ago when my team lost a football game: 'Come what may, and love it.'"

He recommended four specific ways we can learn to love our circumstances, however difficult they may be:

As we look for humor, seek for the eternal perspective, understand the principle of compensation, and draw near to our Heavenly Father, we can endure hardship and trial. We can say, as did my mother, “Come what may, and love it.”

Elder Holland began his talk by saying, with great emotion,

"Within the ranks of the general authorities of the church, there is no man more beloved than Joseph Bitner Wirthlin. We praise him for living the sermons that he preaches."

(note: this was included in the audio recording, but not in the text manuscript)

Elder Holland then went on to eloquently speak of angels, messengers from God, who have comforted, taught and warned people on earth throughout the history of the world.

"My beloved brothers and sisters, I testify of angels, both the heavenly and the mortal kind. In doing so I am testifying that God never leaves us alone, never leaves us unaided in the challenges that we face. ...

"On occasions, global or personal, we may feel we are distanced from God, shut out from heaven, lost, alone in dark and dreary places. Often enough that distress can be of our own making, but even then the Father of us all is watching and assisting. And always there are those angels who come and go all around us, seen and unseen, known and unknown, mortal and immortal."

Then, Elder Holland challenged each of us:

"In the process of praying for those angels to attend us, may we all try to be a little more angelic ourselves—with a kind word, a strong arm, a declaration of faith and 'the covenant wherewith [we] have covenanted.^' Perhaps then we can be emissaries sent from God when someone, perhaps a Primary child, is crying, "Darkness . . . afraid . . . river . . . alone.'"

This morning, I again felt the Comforter come and bring peace, because I was privileged to walk with two angelic messengers from God. Thank you, angels Joseph and Jeffrey, for your inspired counsel.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Family testimonies

Dear family,

As I collected testimonies from many of you this week, I was overwhelmed with gratitude at the legacy of faith in our family. Through four generations, we have so much righteousness, humility, and desire to do good. As we near the end of our first "Zion Family" year--and I hope there will be more--I thought it would be appropriate to share the testimonies of our family members (I have the permission of all those who contributed). I am sure Ryan will be thrilled to receive them in the mission field, and I'm sure they will bless our lives as well.

Grandma & Grandpa Dixon:
Please accept this Book of Mormon as our gift to you. It has been one of the greatest gifts we have ever received because it contains God's word for us today. We know that the Book of Mormon was translated by the Prophet Joseph Smith and that it is a companion to the Bible to teach us the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Please read it carefully and prayerfully and you can know as we do that it is true.

We would love to hear from you regarding your thoughts as you read and study this book.

Sincerely,

Ken and Dixie Dixon

Grandma Dent:
I am 81 years old and have been a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints since age 8. I have studied the gospel for many years in classes, by reading the standard works, and by living the standards outlined in the gospel and have found it is the way to have a happy life. The sweet truths in the Book of Mormon and the companionship of the Holy Ghost bring such great blessings. I have a firm testimony that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is God's true church on the earth, that Joseph Smith was a great prophet, the Book of Mormon is true scripture, and above all--Jesus is the Christ.

Marjorie Dent

Grandpa Dent:
It is my desire to offer my sincere and unwavering testimony as to the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and the restoration of the only true gospel through the prophet Joseph Smith, Jr. by revelation from God.

I know without a doubt that God is real, as is his son Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost. They are active in our lives daily. I also have a firm testimony of the power of prayer. I have received many miracles in my life which have helped me through difficult situations.

I am one who has not shared my testimony publicly as often as I should.
I guess that's because I have considered it private and sacred. I know what's in my heart and I know that God knows and to me that is what is important.

Sincerely,

M. Mitchell Dent

Dad/Mark:
Dear friend,

I love the Book of Mormon. It has been a profound influence for good in my life. The inspired principles I have learned through studying this book have provided a strong spiritual foundation for my family and myself. I learn more from the book each day as I study and ponder the Gospel of Jesus Christ taught so powerfully within these pages.

I know the book was written by prophets of God who loved the Savior, Jesus Christ, and worked to teach their people about him. We are privileged to have this book because one of those prophets, Moroni, returned as a heavenly messenger to deliver the book to Joseph Smith, who translated it into our language through inspiration from God. I am grateful for the miraculous process that enabled us to have this wonderful book of scripture.

I pray that you will also read, study and pray about this book. I promise you that as you do so, and ponder how the principles you learn apply in your life, you will feel peace and strength that come from God. May the Lord bless you as you explore this wonderful book.

Your brother,

Mark Dixon

Mom/Claudia:
These things I know to be true:

We are daughters and sons of a loving Heavenly Father. He knows us, loves us, and wants us to be happy. Jesus Christ is our Savior. He, too, loves us. We can give our burdens to him. He atoned for our sins and sorrows through his sacrifice. The Gospel of Jesus Christ was restored to the earth through the Prophet Joseph Smith, who translated the Book of Mormon. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints was organized to further His work and spread the gospel. I know Thomas S. Monson is a prophet of God on the earth today. I know the Book of Mormon to be true. I have had a spiritual witness that it is of God. I know that the Holy Ghost can witness to us the truthfulness and validity of these things.

It is my prayer that you, too, will know these things are true through the power of the Holy Ghost.

Claudia Dixon

Heidi:
Dear friend,

I know that God the Father and his son, Jesus Christ, live and love all people on the earth. They watch over us daily and rejoice when we take steps to return to them.

I know that The Book of Mormon you hold is true. I have received a personal witness from God that righteous prophets transcribed this ancient record, and that Joseph Smith, a modern-day prophet, translated it for the benefit of all mankind. I can testify that as you read its messages, ponder their meaning, and pray about the truthfulness of this book, you, too, can receive a powerful testimony.

May the spirit of our Heavenly Father and his Son be with you in your search for the truth.

Sincerely,

Heidi Bartle

Garry:
Dear Friend,

This book, the Book of Mormon, the book you hold in your hands is a book of power. It is the only book that contains the Word of God as recorded by the prophets of old and that was translated by a modern-day prophet, Joseph Smith, under the direction of the Holy Spirit.

The men who gave this book to you are servants of the Lord. They have a wonderful gift to share with you, the gift of truth, knowledge, righteousness, and the everlasting gospel of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Please listen to what they have to say!

I promise you that if you will honestly and prayerfully consider the words in this book and the teachings of the missionaries, your life will be changed forevermore. You will find salvation, peace, and eternal life with your Father in Heaven. I know this is true!

Garry Bartle

Zachary:
This is what I believe:

Joseph Smith once was a prophet. He talked to God and Jesus Christ. He translated the Book of Mormon so we could have it. The Book of Mormon is real and it makes me feel good to read it.

Heavenly Father is the father of Jesus Christ and the father of everybody on the earth. We are all brothers and sisters. Heavenly Father wants us to be good and live with him someday.

I get to be baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in October 2009. I am excited to be a member of the true church.

Love,

Zachary Bartle, age 7

Tyler:
This is what I believe:

We will all resurrect when we die because of Jesus.

The scriptures are true. I read the Book of Mormon every day with my family and it makes me feel good.

Prophets are real. They tell the truth.

I am excited to be baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when I am eight years old. My sins will be washed away.

Tyler Bartle, age 4

David:
Dear Friend,

Though we have not met, I am grateful you have come into possession of this wonderful book. I pray that you will read it with earnestness and intent, and pray to our loving Father in Heaven for a witness of its truthfulness. I testify that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, and that by implementing the pattern of living described herein, you can achieve lasting happiness and eternal salvation with your family. But don't rely on my testimony; you can have your own, personal witness if you will do as Moroni promises in the last chapter of the book -- read with real intent, ask in faith, and listen as the Holy Spirit testifies of the truth to you. May God bless you and your family.

-David Dixon

Rachel:
Dear friend,

I wanted to share with you my feelings about the book you are holding. I have read it many time and I know it is true. The words it contains will bring peace to your heart and comfort to your soul. I am so grateful for the Book of Mormon and the restored gospel and the knowledge I have that my family can be together for eternity in the presence of the Lord. I hope it brings the same joy to your life that it has brought to mine.

With love,

Rachel Dixon

Angie:
I am so thankful for my testimony. It is something that I have no matter where I am, what I’m going through, or how hard things get. My knowledge of the gospel is what keeps me going & is the source of every joy I have in my life. [It makes me really happy.]

The basis of my testimony is that I am a Child of God who loves me. He knows my face, my name, my heart, and my circumstances. He loves me for who I am & what I am becoming. He knows my joys, my heartaches & the innermost desires of my soul. He knows what’s best for me. He wants me to be happy.

I believe that he sent his son Jesus Christ [my brother] to overcome all so that mankind could be saved from the bands of death & sin. I personally know the cleansing power of the atonement & the magnificent ability it has to make weak things become strong. I am so grateful for this knowledge because it is what will allow us to return to our Heavenly Father again.

I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God & helped restore the only true & everlasting gospel on the earth today. I believe that Thomas S. Monson is also a prophet & tells us what Heavenly Father wants us to know & do. I know that families can be together forever.

How do I know these things? I know because of the undeniable comforting spirit I get when I read the scriptures. The contents of this book are true. The Holy Ghost has testified that to me. I pray that you will receive that same sweet witness.

Love,

Angie Dunn

Eric:
Dear Friend,

I love the Book of Mormon!

Over the years, I have grown to love the principles and teachings in this book. I've gained a greater understanding and testimony about love, charity, Jesus Christ and the power of prayer. The Book of Mormon has guided me and my family to become truly happy! I have felt God's love while reading and studying its words. It know it is true with all my heart!

The gospel of Jesus Christ is restored, and we can all feel the love of God and the Savior in our lives. I challenge you to read, ponder, and pray about the Book of Mormon. Our loving Heavenly Father will listen and answer your prayers.

Love,

Eric Dixon

Holly:
I know that these scriptures are true. I can feel their power and spirit every time I read them and I know that they are the Word of God. I know Heavenly Father answers our prayers. When I pray, I feel his spirit surrounding me, and I know that I am doing the right thing. I know that in times of struggles and trials, we can be comforted and helped in the right path, if we hold strong to the gospel. Heavenly Father will always give us the courage and strength to hold on during these times. I know that having faith in Christ is very important, and I have a testimony that by having faith, we can have eternal glory and happiness. I believe in the plan of salvation. I know that if we choose the right, we can be with our families forever. I have a testimony that Heavenly Father loves each one of us, and knows us. You are his child.

With love,

Holly Dixon

Press Forward with a Steadfastness in Christ

Hello Family:

Each of us face unique challenges in this troubled time of the world.   We struggle to cope  with our individuals problems day by day, and can be disheartened by the flood of discouraging news that bombards us. 

But this morning, I read again a verse that should be the foundation of our efforts not just to cope, but to prosper in the midst of our challenges:

2 Nephi 31:20
Wherefore, ye must press forward with a ^asteadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of ^bhope, and a ^clove of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and ^dendure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have ^eeternal life.

Nephi wrote that verse for his family nearly 2,600 years ago, but it applies directly to us today.  I pray that each of us and all of us collectively will be able to press forward in Christ and grasp the hope that comes from him.  I know he will sustain us.

Love,

Dad

God's Laboratory of Love and Service

Dear Family:

As I walked with giants along the beach at Monterey Bay this morning, the crashing waves and starlit sky bore witness of God's power and majesty. The Holy Ghost spoke softly to my soul, confirming once again God's goodness and love for us. In that divine setting, I was uplifted by this divine counsel from Elder Nelson:

The home is to be God’s laboratory of love and service. There a husband is to love his wife, a wife is to love her husband, and parents and children are to love one another. ...

Do not try to control your children. Instead, listen to them, help them to learn the gospel, inspire them, and lead them toward eternal life. You are God’s agents in the care of children He has entrusted to you. Let His divine influence remain in your hearts as you teach and persuade. ...

As children of the covenant, we have met in this morning’s solemn assembly. Attention has been focused upon the sacred titles of prophets and apostles. But the final responsibility to prepare for salvation and exaltation rests upon each person, accountable for individual agency, acting in one’s own family, bearing another sacred title of mother, father, daughter, son, grandmother, or grandfather.

In those responsible roles, may we go forward in faith, led by Jesus Christ, whose Church this is, and by His prophet, through whom He speaks.

-- Elder Russell M. Nelson - Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Salvation and Exaltation, April 2008 General Conference, Saturday morning session.

Please know of the love I have for each of you. It is a singular honor to be a member of this family, working with you in a united and noble quest to walk back into the presence of God.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Preservation and Deliverance

In these perilous times when we are confronted with widespread disregard for God's commandments and uncertain economic conditions, we can take great heart from the scriptural account of the courageous young "sons of Helaman" and the Nephite armies, who were preserved and delivered through God's miraculous power.

Helaman commented on the preservation of the 2,060 young men:

" ... we do justly ascribe it to the miraculous ^bpower of God, because of their exceeding ^cfaith in that which they had been taught to believe—that there was a just God, and whosoever did not doubt, that they should be preserved by his marvelous power.  Now this was the ^afaith of these of whom I have spoken; they are young, and their minds are ^bfirm, and they do put their trust in God continually. (Alma 57:26)

Gid, one of the chief captains, spoke of the miraculous power of deliverance:

" ... we are again delivered out of the hands of our enemies. And blessed is the name of our God; for behold, it is he that has delivered us; yea, that has done this great thing for us."  (Alma 57:35)

Helaman commented further:

" ... I was filled with exceeding joy because of the goodness of God in preserving us, that we might not all perish ..." (Alma 57:36)

Like these valiant young men, we must be "firm and undaunted" and "obey and observe to perform every word of command with exactness."  Then, even as "according to their faith it was  done unto them" we also will be delivered and preserved by the miraculous hand of God. (Alma 57:20-21)

Love,

Dad/Mark

Treasures in Heaven

Over the weekend of September 13th and 14th, two major financial services firms underwent massive change.  Lehman Brothers declared bankruptcy and Merrill Lynch agreed to be purchased by the Bank of America. They had fallen victim to the excesses associated with the sub prime mortgage meltdown.

On Monday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted over 500 points.  The next morning, the headline on the USA Today financial section screamed, "Dow Tumbles 504 ... over $750 billion in wealth obliterated."

The following scriptural references immediately came to mind:

Helaman 13: 31

"And behold, the time cometh that he curseth your riches, that they become ^aslippery, that ye cannot hold them; and in the days of your poverty ye cannot retain them"

Matthew 6: 20

"But lay up for yourselves ^atreasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor ^bsteal:

"For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

In these times of economic uncertainty, I pray that we will recognize that real safety and security come only through the gospel of Jesus Christ. We do need to provide for our families. We should definitely follow the prophet and store food to help in time of need. But most of all, our real treasure, that which we hold most dear, must be our families and testimonies of Christ.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Lessons from Liberty Jail

Last night's CES Fireside with Elder Jeffrey R. Holland was fantastic. He discussed in detail the horrific experiences that Joseph Smith and his fellow Saints had during the harsh winter of 1838-39, particularly those in Liberty Jail. He explained how the atrocities they endured could be likened to experiences we have in the temple -- a place of spiritual instruction.

Elder Holland suggested three lessons we might learn from that "jail temple."

1. Everyone (including and perhaps especially the righteous) will be called upon to endure trying times and feel "spiritual loneliness." We must not succumb to the fear that God has abandoned us; He is right there with us!
2. Just because difficult things happen, we are not unrighteous or unworthy of blessings. The same thing happened to the Savior and because He rose above it, so can we.
3. In the midst of difficult situations and feelings, we must remain clam, patient, charitable, long-suffering, kind, and forgiving. The real test of our faith is when things are not going smoothly.

He then quoted D&C 121:36 and explained that if we are to call upon the powers of heaven, we must live and act in accordance with God's commandments.

Elder Holland concluded with a beautiful apostolic blessing upon all who could hear his voice. That was wonderful to witness. He also encouraged us to read D&C sections 121, 122, and 123, which were all revelations Joseph received while incarcerated in Liberty Jail. Since we all have difficult circumstances in our lives, we can learn from those who have suffered far worse.

Please watch the CES Fireside if it is rebroadcast in your area! It was wonderful!

Love,

Heidi

Vision of Eternal Life

Many of you probably read Angie's recent blog post about her Vision Board. Her motivation for this wonderful project? "Having a piece of my brain/soul hanging on the wall of my craft room helps me keep things in perspective & remember daily that [God is so good.]"

This reminded me of Elder Perry's talk in the last General Conference:

"In many cookbooks there are pictures of the perfect dishes that recipes make—the fulness of the joy of cooking. These pictures are important because they help us envision the outcome if we strictly follow the directions as given in the recipe. It is important to begin with the end in mind ...

"When we think of eternal life, what is the picture that comes to mind? I believe that if we could create in our minds a clear and true picture of eternal life, we would start behaving differently. We would not need to be prodded to do the many things involved with enduring to the end, like doing our home teaching or visiting teaching, attending our meetings, going to the temple, living moral lives, saying our prayers, or reading the scriptures. We would want to do all these things and more because we realize they will prepare us to go somewhere we yearn to go."

Elder L. Tom Perry, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, The Gospel of Jesus Christ, April 2008 General Conference, Saturday Afternoon Session.

Whether our individual visions of eternal life are displayed on the wall of a craft room, or written in a journal, or posted on a blog or sketched in the margins of our scriptures is not the most important thing. The important thing is that we see clearly see that vision and continually strive to attain it. If we "yearn to go," we will achieve it.

I pray that each of us can deeply etch a vision of eternal life with our Zion Family deep upon the tender parts of our hearts and minds and yearn to be there. My vision of eternal life is life with each of you. We can all be there!

Love,

Dad/Mark

Establishing the Cause of Zion

I was impressed by last week's Priesthood lesson, "Establishing the Cause of Zion." One section of the lesson seemed particularly applicable to our goal of being a Zion family: "We build up the cause of Zion by becoming a people who are pure in heart and by working diligently with one heart and mind."

Some of the specific counsel Joseph offered us includes:

"… We ought to have the building up of Zion as our greatest object. … The time is soon coming, when no man will have any peace but in Zion and her stakes."

"There will be here and there a Stake [of Zion] for the gathering of the Saints. … There your children shall be blessed, and you in the midst of friends where you may be blessed."

"Anyplace where the Saints gather is Zion, which every righteous man will build up for a place of safety for his children."

"[We] pray our heavenly Father that you may be very prayerful, very humble, and very charitable; working diligently, spiritually and temporally, for the redemption of Zion, that the pure in heart may return with songs of everlasting joy to build up her waste places, and meet the Lord when He comes in His glory [see D&C 101:18]."

I am certain that we can establish the cause of Zion in each little eternal segment of our family, in our various homes and communities, wherever we are, as we diligently come to Christ, accept and obey his counsel, serve each other with love.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Beyond Checklist Prayers

Don't you love how Elder Bednar takes important gospel subjects and breaks them down into specific things we must do? He summarized the message of his last conference address as follows. I added used bullet items, highlighting and italics for emphasis.

We can move beyond routine and “checklist” prayers and engage in meaningful prayer as we:

• appropriately ask in faith and act
• patiently persevere through the trial of our faith
• humbly acknowledge and accept "not my will, but Thine, be done"

Elder David A. Bednar, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Ask in Faith, April 2008 General Conference, Sunday Afternoon Session

By following Elder Bednar's counsel, I pray that we all can learn how to communicate more effectively with our Heavenly Father.

Love,

Dad/Mark

I Delight in Miracles

I was inspired this morning as I listened to Sister Tanner's talk from the last general conference. It is particularly fitting as we are praying for miracles to occur in the lives of loved ones and rejoice to learn when prayers are being answered, step by tiny step.

"In the Book of Mormon, Nephi speaks often of delight. He delights 'in the things of the Lord,' ... We too should delight in the things of the Lord for it will 'lift' our hearts and give us cause to 'rejoice' (2 Nephi 11:8). ...

"I delight in the Lord’s mercies and miracles (see 'Bless Our Fast, We Pray,' Hymns, no. 138). I know that His tender mercies and His miracles, large and small, are real. They come in His way and on His timetable. Sometimes it is not until we have reached our extremity. Jesus’s disciples on the Sea of Galilee had to toil in rowing against a contrary wind all through the night before Jesus finally came to their aid. He did not come until the 'fourth watch,' meaning near dawn. Yet He did come. (See Mark 6:45–51.) My testimony is that miracles do come, though sometimes not until the fourth watch.

"Right now I am exerting my faith and prayers and watching for miracles in behalf of loved ones who are physically sick, emotionally bereft, and spiritually astray. I delight in the Lord’s love for each of His children and in His wisdom to allow us individually tailored earthly experiences."

Susan W. Tanner, Recently Released Young Women General President, My Soul Delighteth in the Things of the Lord, April 2008 General Conference, Sunday Morning Session.

Thank you, Sister Tanner, for the miracle of hope and inspiration you bring to us.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Concern for the One

President Wirthlin's talk in April General Conference was entitled "Concern for the One." He highlighted President Monson as a shining example of this Christlike focus on individuals.

"I have known President Monson for a long time. He is a mighty man of Israel who was foreordained to preside over this Church. He is well known for his captivating stories and parables, but we who know him best understand that his life is a practical and exemplary model of the application of those stories. While it is a compliment to him that many of the great and mighty of this world know and honor him, perhaps it is an even greater tribute that many of the lowly call him friend.

"To his core, President Monson is kind and compassionate. His words and deeds exemplify his concern for the one."

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Concern for the One," April 2008 General Conference, Saturday Morning Session.

I pray that each of us might follow the examples of President Monson and our own perfect example, Mama Clodhopper, and have concern for individual people with whom we interact. That concern for the one will bring unity and happiness to us all.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Our Family is an Orchestra

One of the biggest surprises of fatherhood to me was to realize how different each member of our family is. Each of us came to earth with unique and wonderful personalities.

Elder Wirthlin's talk from April General Conference reminded me of this when he spoke of:

"... the erroneous belief that all members of the Church should look, talk, and be alike. The Lord did not people the earth with a vibrant orchestra of personalities only to value the piccolos of the world. Every instrument is precious and adds to the complex beauty of the symphony. All of Heavenly Father’s children are different in some degree, yet each has his own beautiful sound that adds depth and richness to the whole.

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Concern for the One, April 2008 General Conference, Saturday morning session.

What a great analogy! I like to think of our family as an orchestra, each unique and special, everyone contributing immeasurably to the beauty of the whole.

Love,

Dad/Mark

A pure heart and clean hands

I was cleaning the carpet today when inspiration hit.

Armed with a brand-new can of Spot Shot, I aimed to rid my bedroom carpet of baby spit stains, dirt, and other random junk that has accumulated over the last 2 1/2 months. The soiled carpet has been bothering me for several weeks now, and I hoped it wasn't too late to remove the stains. To my great relief, the cleaning process worked like a charm. My only regret was not attending to the mess sooner.

As I scrubbed the floor on my hands and knees, the words of Alma came to my mind. They were fresh, since we read from Alma 5 this morning as a family. To put the passage in context, Alma had just embarked on his mission to the Nephites, hoping that the pure doctrine of Jesus Christ would help them change their ways. Beginning in verse 26, he said:

26 And now behold, I say unto you, my brethren, if ye have experienced a ^achange of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the ^bsong of redeeming love, I would ask, ^ccan ye feel so now?

27 Have ye walked, keeping yourselves ^ablameless before God? Could ye say, if ye were called to die at this time, within yourselves, that ye have been sufficiently ^bhumble? That your garments have been ^ccleansed and made white through the blood of Christ, who will come to ^dredeem his people from their sins?

28 Behold, are ye stripped of ^apride? I say unto you, if ye are not ye are not prepared to meet God. Behold ye must prepare quickly; for the kingdom of heaven is soon at hand, and such an one hath not eternal life.

29 Behold, I say, is there one among you who is not stripped of ^aenvy? I say unto you that such an one is not prepared; and I would that he should prepare ^bquickly, for the hour is close at hand, and he knoweth not when the time shall come; for such an one is not found guiltless.

30 And again I say unto you, is there one among you that doth make a ^amock of his brother, or that heapeth upon him persecutions?

31 Wo unto such an one, for he is not prepared, and the ^atime is at hand that he must repent or he cannot be saved!

32 Yea, even wo unto all ye ^aworkers of iniquity; repent, repent, for the Lord God hath spoken it!

33 Behold, he sendeth an invitation unto ^aall men, for the ^barms of mercy are extended towards them, and he saith: Repent, and I will receive you.

My mind turned to Ryan's farewell address, when he challenged all of us to repent daily. I felt a renewed sense of urgency to do better with daily repentance. Like my carpet, I can still be washed clean if I neglect my spirit for a while, but the process is longer and more challenging. How much better it would be if we tackled our dirty spots daily with the healing balm of the Savior's sacrifice and feel welcome in His arms.

Love,

Heidi

Safe Place Traditions

I really love Sister Cheryl Lant's talk about righteous traditions from the last conference. I was particularly impressed with her comments on how righteous traditions can help us build "safe places" for our families.

I would invite all of us to take a moment to reflect on the traditions in our lives and how they might be affecting our families. Our traditions of Sabbath day observance, family prayer, family scripture study, service and activity in the Church, as well as patterns of respect and loyalty in the home, will have a great effect on our children and on their future. If our parenting is based on the teachings of the scriptures and of the latter-day prophets, we cannot go wrong. If every time there is a challenge our hearts turn first and always to our Father in Heaven for direction, we will be in a safe place.

If our children know where we stand and we always stand on the Lord’s side, we know we are where we need to be. Now, the important thing is that we consistently work to do these things. We will not be perfect at it, and our families will not always respond positively, but we will be building a strong foundation of righteous traditions that our children can depend on.

Cheryl C. Lant, Primary General President, Righteous Traditions, April 2008 General Conference, Saturday Morning Session

Love,

Dad/Mark

Zion Family: Building Blocks of Faith and Testimony

In our Ward Conference today, Bishop Cameron McKay was extraordinarily emotional as he spoke. His wife has been battling cancer for over a year and is currently enduring yet another round of painful treatments. He had not planned to attend the meeting and had provided Brother Jones with the text of the message he wished the ward to hear. But Bishop McKay did come and gave a powerful talk about seeking to be perfect in Christ through the power of the atonement.

I was reminded of Elder Rasband's talk in the last General Conference, testifying that our life experiences can provide building blocks of faith:

"Our personal journey through life provides us with many special experiences that become building blocks of faith and testimony. These experiences come to us in vastly different ways and at unpredictable times. They can be powerful spiritual events or small enlightening moments. Some experiences will come as serious challenges and heavy trials that test our ability to cope with them. No matter what the experience may be, each gives us a chance for personal growth, greater wisdom, and, in many cases, service to others with more empathy and love. As the Lord stated to the Prophet Joseph Smith in a reassuring way during one of his most significant trials at Liberty Jail, 'All these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good' (D&C 122:7).

"As experiences accumulate in our lives, they add strength and support to each other. Just as the building blocks of our homes support the rest of the structure, so too do our personal life experiences become building blocks for our testimonies and add to our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ."

Ronald A. Rasband, Special Experiences, April 2008 General Conference, Saturday Morning Session.

I don't wish for more trials to come upon any of us in our family or our friends, but they certainly will come. I hope and pray that each of us can take advantage of each trial or test or life experience to progressively build our testimonies and commitment to Christ. I am confident the Master Builder will magnify our small desires and efforts through the power of the Holy Ghost to make our building blocks eternal.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Keys of the Priesthood Bless our Families

Last night, when I spoke with Claudia from my hotel room in Overland Park, Kansas, she recounted how David had given Devlin a priesthood blessing prior to attending his first day of kindergarten, exercising his authority as a father and priesthood holder to serve his family. What a thrill it was to hear of a worthy son extending not only a family tradition, but taking the initiative to draw down the power of heaven on behalf of his family.

I also felt the sweet assurance of the spirit yesterday morning as Eric joined me to give Holly a blessing to start her first day back to school.

This morning, during my "walk with the giants," I listened again to President Eyring's talk from the last general conference. Three brief sentences the uttered in testifying of the reality of priesthood keys impressed me:

"Revelation and inspiration have come to him [President Monson] in my presence, which
confirms to me that God is honoring those keys. I am an eyewitness.
They are keys of a priesthood which is, in the Lord's words, "without
beginning or end."⁵


President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, The True and Living Church, Saturday Morning Session, April 2008 General Conference.

As he spoke those words, the Spirit whispered to me that a similar miracle had occured in Dent-Dixon homes yesterday. Keys and authority of the priesthood were exercised in faith. Revelation was received and spoken. God honored those keys. We are grateful witnesses.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Exaltation is a Family Matter

While in Washington, DC, this past week, I stayed at a riverfront hotel east of the city in a newly developed area called National Harbor. Early each morning I took a solitary walk along the shoreline while listening to conference talks on my iPod.

One morning, I was particularly impressed with this comment by Elder Nelson:

"In God’s eternal plan, salvation is an individual matter; exaltation is a family matter.

"As children of the covenant, we have met in this morning’s solemn assembly. Attention has been focused upon the sacred titles of prophets and apostles. But the final responsibility to prepare for salvation and exaltation rests upon each person, accountable for individual agency, acting in one’s own family, bearing another sacred title of mother, father, daughter, son, grandmother, or grandfather."

Russell M. Nelson, Salvation and Exaltation, April 2008 General Conference, Saturday morning session.

We are all in this together. While each of us certainly has responsibility to gain individual testimony and individually learn how to claim the promised blessings of the atonement, all of us in the Dent-Dixon family have the sacred responsibility to assist and lift and bless the lives of each other. It is extremely heartening to me to see this happening, day in and day out, within our family. Somehow, I think that is the sealing power in action, operational within our family, helping us all in our collective effort to return home to God.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Profile of a Prophet

Hello Family:

As we drove along the miles during our recent family road trip, we listened to Hugh B. Brown's classic talk, Profile of a Prophet. In his distinctive, powerful voice, President Brown summarized the discussion he had, prior to the outbreak of World War II, with a prominent English statesman, presented in the form of a legal brief, outlining the logical reasons he believed that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God.

I had listened to this talk many times while serving as a missionary in England over 30 years ago. I was impressed then, and perhaps even more so now, by President Brown's closing statement:

"I have brought to you very briefly some of the reasons why I believe that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. But undergirding and overarching all that, I say to you from the very center of my heart that by the revelations of the Holy Ghost I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. Although these evidences and many others that could be cited may have the effect of giving one an intellectual conviction, only by the whisperings of the Holy Spirit can one come to know the things of God. By those whisperings I say I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God. I thank God for that knowledge ..."

Today in sacrament meeting, Ryan gave the same witness, that through personal revelation from the Holy Ghost, he knew that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God. Ryan will carry that powerful witness with him to Croatia, where honest seekers of truth will respond like the English judge:

"He said, 'Mr. Brown, I wonder if your people appreciate the import of your message. Do you?' He said, 'If what you have told me is true, it is the greatest message that has come to this earth since the angels announced the birth of Christ.'

"This was a judge speaking—a great statesman, an intelligent man. He threw out the challenge: 'Do you appreciate the import of what you say?' He added, 'I wish it were true. I hope it may be true. God knows it ought to be true. I would to God,' he said, and he wept as he said it, 'that some man could appear on earth and authoritatively say, 'Thus saith the Lord.''"

Let me add my witness to those expressed by Ryan and President Brown. I know, through a witness born to my spirit by the Holy Ghost, that Joseph Smith is a prophet of the living God. He saw what he said he saw. He could indeed proclaim, "Thus saith the Lord."

He was an instrument in the hand of the Lord to restore the true and living Church to the earth in our time. And, we, the Dent-Dixon Zion Family, are the beneficiaries of his great service.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Peace in Zion

Dear Family:

This quotation from Joseph Smith seems particularly relevant in our world today: 

"We ought to have the building up of Zion as our greatest object. . . The time is soon coming, when no man will have any peace but in Zion and her stakes."

(Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 160-61)

And to think he said that over 160 years ago!

Love,

Dad/Mark

The Lord Comforted Us

Hello Family:

Friday, as I was reading the Book of Mormon on my flight home from San Diego, I was impressed with this scripture:

Now when our hearts were depressed, and we were about to turn back, behold, the Lord comforted us, and said: Go amongst thy brethren, the Lamanites, and bear with patience thine afflictions, and I will give unto you success. (Alma 26:27)

May I share a few thoughts I jotted down in my journal?

So many times I have felt depressed and inadequate as I'm sure all people do.

Just as the brothers were about to give up and go home, just when they were depressed to the brink of despair, the Lord comforted them. They endured much. When all seemed hopeless, light shined through the darkness ad comfort came.

The Lord didn't remove the burdens. He asked them to proceed, bearing their burdens with patience.

Their faith was tried. They persevered. Comfort and strength came. They achieved success.

We must always press forward. We must always have faith that He will bring success and comfort.

As we know, the sons of Mosiah went on to have great success in their work to serve the Lamanite people. They did endure in faith, even though they suffered terrible opposition and privation. They did receive power to bear their burdens. The Lord sustained them. They had wonderful experiences as they participated in the miraculous conversion and transformation of thousands of people.

Ammon described the great joy they experienced while in the Lord's service this way:

Now have we not reason to rejoice? Yea, I say unto you, there never were men that had so great reason to rejoice as we, since the world began ... (Alma 26:35)

I pray that each of us, as we struggle through our everyday lives, even though we feel depressed and lonely and fearful, will remember the sons of Mosiah and follow their example. As we turn to the Lord, he will comfort us. He will sustain us. He will enable our success. He will bring us great joy.

Love,

Dad/Mark

PS. All of the Zion Family quotations can be found here.

Honoring our Father in Heaven

Dear Family:

Happy Father's Day! I am grateful for my father and Claudia's father and the righteous fathers before them who set an example of commitment to our Heavenly Father. I am grateful to be a father and grandfather and am grateful for our three sons who are fathers now and our four more who will become so. (Garry, David, Myron + Eric, Ryan, Holly's future husband, and Luke).

I find the role of fatherhood to be an honor beyond the ability of words to describe. However, in my scripture study this morning, I received a new glimpse into the grandeur of the fatherhood of God and his hope for us, his children. I feel prompted to share it with you.

Consider Paul's challenge to the Hebrews: "Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?" (Hebrews 12:9)

It is fitting and proper that we honor our fathers on this special day, but let's also focus our attention on Him who is Father of us all. Of all titles Elohim could ask us to call him, he chose "Father." Jesus loved and respected his Father. Acting under the his Father's direction, Jesus taught us to pray, "Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name." (Matthew 6:9)

Jesus also invited us, "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." (Matthew 5:48)

Please focus with me for a moment on the word, "Father," rather than the word "perfect" as we usually do. Jesus is extending an invitation for us to return home with him to the presence of our Father and become as our Father is, to experience the fullness of joy that he is experiencing.

It is as if our Father is saying,

"I am your father. You are my children. Your heavenly mother and I have given spiritual birth to each of you. We live in a state of infinite happiness and want more than anything else to have you join us here. We love you and want you to experience the eternal joy we have.

"Therefore, I have provided a way for you to learn how to overcome the world, gain eternal life and experience infinite joy with us. I have set the perfect example of how to live so you might come home. I invite you to follow this example.

"Please learn how to become good fathers and mothers yourselves. That will give you an understanding of my relationship with you. You will come to know the depth of our love for you and how much we want you to come back home.

"I have offered my only begotten son to you as a Savior. He has taught you how to become good fathers and mothers. He provided a way for you to be cleansed, sanctified and exalted. Please follow him home. He has shown you the way to become like me. Then, we can experience infinite joy, a state of perfectness and peace, together."

Later, after he had wrought the atonement and was resurrected, Jesus slightly changed his invitation: "Therefore I would that ye should be perfect even as I, or your Father who is in heaven is perfect." (3 Nephi 12:48)

Having completed his journey home, Jesus was saying "Come follow me back to Father. I have provided the way. I have set the example. Let's go back home."

May we forever strive to become, step by step, experience by experience, like our Father in Heaven. I know he lives. I know that he knows each of us by name. He knows our hearts. He knows what we must do to come home to him.

I pray that we might all become like him, and walk together into his presence for eternity.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Guidance of the Spirit

Dear Family:

As I was reading this week in Elder Eyring's book "To Draw Closer to God," that I received for my birthday, I was impressed to share this quotation from Marion G. Romney which Elder Eyring referenced:

"If you want to obtain and keep the guidance of the Spirit, you can do so by following this simple four-point program.

"One, pray. Pray diligently. Pray with each other. Pray in public in the proper places ...

"Learn to talk to the Lord; call upon his name in great faith and confidence.

"Second, study and learn the gospel.

"Third, live righteously; repent of your sins by confessing them and forsaking them. Then conform to the teachings of the gospel.

"Fourth, give service in the Church.

"If you will do these things, you will get the guidance of the Holy Spirit and you will go through this world successfully, regardless of what the people of the world say or do."

Marion G. Romney, "Guidance of the Holy Spirit," Ensign, January 1980, p.5

I pray that we may all be able to follow Elder Romney's counsel and receive guidance from the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Seeds of Divinity

Hello family:

The following quotation from President Faust is short in words but long in meaning:

"If we are constantly aware of the seeds of divinity in us, it will help us rise above earthly challenges and difficulties."

James E. Faust, Liahona, July 2001, 53-56

May we always remember that we are indeed divine offspring of God, inherently divine in origin and potentially divine in destiny if we choose to accept the gift of eternal life our Father offers to us.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Gratitude Brings Happiness

Hello Family:

I really enjoyed this quotation from Bonnie D. Parker, former General Relief Society President, that dropped into my email box this week:

Mercies and blessings come in different forms--sometimes as hard things. Yet the Lord said, 'Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things' (D&C 59:7). All things means just that: good things, difficult things--not just some things. He has commanded us to be grateful because He knows being grateful will make us happy. This is another evidence of His love."

(Bonnie D. Parkin, "Gratitude: A Path to Happiness," Ensign, May 2007, 35)

Most of all, I am grateful for all of you, the family to which we all belong. You bring me great joy. (That doesn't mean I classify you in the category of "hard things"). :)

Love,

Dad/Mark

Armed with Power

Hello family:

As I was reading the following verses from the dedicatory prayer on the Kirtland Temple on the airplane last night, I thought of Ryan recently receiving his endowment in the Mesa Temple in preparation for him entering the mission field armed with power, bearing the name of Christ and being empowered by the Savior's glory. As Ryan leaves for Croatia in July, we can be confident that angels will have charge over him as he bears "exceedingly great and glorious tidings, in truth, unto the ends of the earth."

22 And we ask thee, Holy Father, that thy servants may go forth from this house armed with thy power, and that thy ^aname may be upon them, and thy glory be round about them, and thine ^bangels have charge over them;

23 And from this place they may bear exceedingly great and glorious tidings, in truth, unto the ^aends of the earth, that they may know that this is thy work, and that thou hast put forth thy hand, to fulfil that which thou hast spoken by the mouths of the prophets, concerning the last days.

(Doctrine & Covenants 109: 22, 23)

May we always treasure the miraculous power of Jesus Christ that comes into our lives in the House of the Lord.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Covenants Protect Us

Dear Family:

Friday night, Ryan was endowed in the Mesa Arizona Temple. Being with him and other endowed members of our family that night brought unspeakable joy. In contemplating the significance of the covenants Ryan entered into that night, and knowing that five of our six children and all three of our married children's spouses have experienced the same covenants, I was inspired by reading the following quotations.

The first, from Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Council of Twelve Apostles:

"A covenant made with God is not restrictive, but protective. Such a concept is not new. For example, if our water supply is not clean, we filter the water to screen out harmful ingredients. Divine covenants help us to filter out of our minds impurities that could harm us. When we choose to deny ourselves of all ungodliness, we lose nothing of value and gain the glory of eternal life. Covenants do not hold us down; they elevate us beyond the limits of our own power and perspective." (Russell M. Nelson, “Personal Preparation for Temple Blessings,” Liahona, Jul 2001, 37–40)

The second, from Sister Bonnie D. Parkin, Relief Society General President:

"Covenants—or binding promises between us and Heavenly Father—are essential for our eternal progression. Step-by-step, He tutors us to become like Him by enlisting us in His work. At baptism we covenant to love Him with all our hearts and love our sisters and brothers as ourselves. In the temple we further covenant to be obedient, selfless, faithful, honorable, charitable. We covenant to make sacrifices and consecrate all that we have. Forged through priesthood authority, our kept covenants bring blessings to fill our cups to overflowing. How often do you reflect that your covenants reach beyond mortality and connect you to the Divine? Making covenants is the expression of a willing heart; keeping covenants, the expression of a faithful heart. ...

"May our individual covenants that bind us to our loving Heavenly Father guide us, protect us, sanctify us, and allow us to do likewise for all His children."(Bonnie D. Parkin, “With Holiness of Heart,” Ensign, Nov 2002, 103)

I know this to be true. I have experienced the protective power promised by our Savior. Our covenants with God do protect us in this troubled world. May we always be mindful of the covenants we have made and do all in our power to keep those covenants. Then, the great promises of protection, enlightenment and joy the Lord promises to the faithful will be ours.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Bring Again Zion

Hello family:

Today in Priesthood meeting, our High Priest Group Leader, Wayne Cardon, quoted from a talk Spencer W. Kimball gave in the April, 1978, conference, entitled, "Becoming the Pure in Heart." Although President Kimball was talking to the Church as a whole, I believe we can apply this directly to our Zion Family:

"May I suggest three fundamental things we must do if we are to “bring again Zion,” three things for which we who labor for Zion must commit ourselves.

"First, we must eliminate the individual tendency to selfishness that snares the soul, shrinks the heart, and darkens the mind. ...

"Second, we must cooperate completely and work in harmony one with the other. There must be unanimity in our decisions and unity in our actions. ...

"Third, we must lay on the altar and sacrifice whatever is required by the Lord. We begin by offering a “broken heart and a contrite spirit.” We follow this by giving our best effort in our assigned fields of labor and callings. We learn our duty and execute it fully. Finally we consecrate our time, talents and means as called upon by our file leaders and as prompted by the whisperings of the Spirit. ...

"My brothers and sisters, if we can do this, then we will find ourselves clothed in the mantle of charity “which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail—

"'But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.' (Moro. 7:46–47.)

"Let us unite and pray with all the energy of heart, that we may be sealed by this bond of charity; that we may build up this latter-day Zion, that the kingdom of God may go forth, so that the kingdom of heaven may come."

I would encourage each of us to read the entire talk and hope that all of us can apply this to our efforts to build an eternal Zion family and prepare for the Second Coming of our Savior.

Love,

Dad/Mark

The Abundant Life through Service

Some great advice from President Monson about finding joy through service:

"To measure the goodness of life by its delights and pleasures is to apply a false standard. The abundant life does not consist of a glut of luxury. It does not make itself content with commercially produced pleasure, mistaking it for joy and happiness. To find real happiness, we must seek for it in a focus outside ourselves. No one has learned the meaning of living until he has surrendered his ego to the service of his fellowmen. Service to others is akin to duty, the fulfillment of which brings true joy."

(Thomas S. Monson, Ensign, May 1990, p.92)

Doesn't this attitude of selfless service remind you of Clodhopper?

Love,

Dad/Mark

God Knows You Individually

Dear Family:

I was impressed with this quotation from Neal A. Maxwell that dropped into my email box this week:

"God has known you individually . . . for a long, long time (see D&C 93:23). He has loved you for a long, long time. He not only knows the names of all the stars (see Psalm 147:4; Isaiah 40:26); He knows your names and all your heartaches and your joys! By the way, you have never seen an immortal star; they finally expire. But seated by you tonight are immortal individuals--imperfect but who are, nevertheless, 'trying to be like Jesus'!"

(Neal A. Maxwell, "Remember How Merciful the Lord Hath Been," Ensign, May 2004, 46)

It is an honor and blessing to be in the family of "immortal individuals" who are "trying to be like Jesus!"

Love,

Dad/Mark

Prayer - a Joyous, Lifetime Experience

Dear Family:

As I have studied the book of Enos during this past week, I have thought much about power of personal prayer. This week's Zion Family quotation comes from President Spencer W. Kimball (Spencer W. Kimball,'Pray Always’,Tambuli, Mar 1982):

"There is a knowledge that our Father in Heaven wants each of us to have, and that is a personal knowledge that he hears and answers our prayers. I have always had very tender feelings about prayer and the power and blessings of prayer. And for this I thank our Heavenly Father and my dear parents and teachers, who taught me by word and example about righteous and heartfelt prayer.

"I am sure that if we pray fervently and righteously, individually and as a family, when we go to bed at night and when we arise in the morning, and around our tables at mealtime, we will not only be closer or more united as loved ones but we will grow spiritually through communion with our Heavenly Father.

"We each have so much need for his help as we seek to learn gospel truths and then live them, as we seek his help in the major decisions of our lives, decisions involving schooling, marriage, employment, place of residence, raising our families, serving with each other in the work of the Lord, and seeking his forgiveness and continual guidance and protection in all we do. Our list of needs is long and real and deeply felt.

...

"Learning the language of prayer is a joyous, lifetime experience. Sometimes ideas flood our mind as we listen after our prayers. Sometimes feelings press upon us. A spirit of calmness assures us that all will be well. But always, if we have been honest and earnest, we will experience a good feeling—feeling of warmth for our Father in Heaven and a sense of his love for us. I have felt sorrow because some of us have not learned the meaning of that calm, spiritual warmth, for it is a witness to us that our prayers have been heard. And since our Father in Heaven loves us with more love than we have even for ourselves, it means that we can trust in his goodness, we can trust in him; it means that if we continue praying and living as we should, our Father’s hand will guide and bless us."

I hope that all of us can seek the "joyous, lifetime experience" in prayer that President Kimball challenged us to find.

Love,

Dad/Mark

P.S. A complete archive of all the Zion Family Quotations are on the "We are a Zion Family" blog.

Overcome Selfishness through Service

Hello Family:

This week's quotation is from James E. Faust (Ensign, Dec 1999):

"At the heart of the message of the Savior of the world is a single, glorious, wonderful, still largely untried concept. In its simplest terms the message is that we should seek to overcome the selfishness we all seem to be born with, that we should overcome human nature and think of others before self. We should think of God and serve Him, and think of others and serve them."

Thank you all for the many, many ways you have given service to each other, to us as your parents and to so many others. May the Lord bless you for your goodness and charity.

Love,

Dad/Mark

The Holy Ghost - Don't Leave Home without Him

Hello Family!

Today, Eric accompanied a high council representative to speak in the Harmony Park Ward sacrament meeting. Eric recounted experiences from his mission in Mongolia that illustrated how important it was to have the Holy Ghost with us every day. The talk could have been entitled, "The Holy Ghost - Don't Leave Home without Him."

Elder Bednar addressed this topic in his April 2006 general conference address entitled, "That We May Always Have His Spirit to Be with Us":

As we study and ponder the purposes of the Liahona and the principles by which it operated, I testify that we will receive inspiration suited to our individual and family circumstances and needs. We can and will be blessed with ongoing direction from the Holy Ghost.

The Liahona was prepared by the Lord and given to Lehi and his family after they left Jerusalem and were traveling in the wilderness (see Alma 37:38; D&C 17:1). This compass or director pointed the way that Lehi and his caravan should go (see 1 Ne. 16:10), even “a straight course to the promised land” (Alma 37:44). The pointers in the Liahona operated “according to the faith and diligence and heed” (1 Ne. 16:28) of the travelers and failed to work when family members were contentious, rude, slothful, or forgetful (see 1 Ne. 18:12, 21; Alma 37:41, 43).

The compass also provided a means whereby Lehi and his family could obtain greater “understanding concerning the ways of the Lord” (1 Ne. 16:29). Thus, the primary purposes of the Liahona were to provide both direction and instruction during a long and demanding journey. The director was a physical instrument that served as an outward indicator of their inner spiritual standing before God. It worked according to the principles of faith and diligence.

Just as Lehi was blessed in ancient times, each of us in this day has been given a spiritual compass that can direct and instruct us during our mortal journey. The Holy Ghost was conferred upon you and me as we came out of the world and into the Savior’s Church through baptism and confirmation. By the authority of the holy priesthood we were confirmed as members of the Church and admonished to seek for the constant companionship of “the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you” (John 14:17).

As we each press forward along the pathway of life, we receive direction from the Holy Ghost just as Lehi was directed through the Liahona. “For behold, again I say unto you that if ye will enter in by the way, and receive the Holy Ghost, it will show unto you all things what ye should do” (2 Ne. 32:5).

Just as Lehi and his family took the Liahona with them to guide them through the wilderness to the promised land, the Holy Ghost will guide our families through the wilderness of our mortal lives to our promised land, the Celestial Kingdom. Let's make sure we don't leave home without him.

Love,

Dad/Mark

President Monson on Eternal Families

Hello Family!

Today's Zion Family email paraphrases parts of President Monson's talk to conclude the Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting held last night, as taken from my notes.

Claudia, Eric, Ryan and I attended the broadcast at the Kimball Stake Center. I thought it wonderful that President Monson's first public sermon to the Church would focus on the basic, foundation principles that build eternal families.

The home is the basis of a righteous life

Whatever the makeup of a family, we should follow the guidelines of the gospel and bring the Spirit into our home.

Jesus taught about home building:

• "And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand." (Mark 3:25)
• "Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God." (D&C:88:119)

Families must be united in purpose.

Three guidelines for eternal families:

1. Establish a Pattern of Prayer
   
   
   • "Pray in your families unto the Father, always in my name, that your wives and your children may be blessed." (3 Nephi 18:21)
   
   
2. Establish a Library of Learning
   
   
   • Read deeply from good books. Don't just rely on abridgments and excerpts.
   
   
   • "And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith." (D&C 88:118)
   
   
   • Teach out of the standard works.
   
   
3. Establish a Legacy of Love
   
   
   • Parents must set good examples for their children.
   
   
   • "Ye have broken the hearts of your tender wives, and lost the confidence of your children, because of your bad examples before them; and the sobbings of their hearts ascend up to God against you. And because of the strictness of the word of God, which cometh down against you, many hearts died, pierced with deep wounds." (Jacob 2:35)

Make our homes sanctuaries from the world.

I bear my witness that President Monson is a prophet of God. I am grateful that our Heavenly Father loves us enough to provide a living prophet to lead us. I pray that we may follow his righteous teachings and example.

Love,

Dad/Mark

President Hinckley: The Six B's

Hello Family!

We had a great Zion Family home evening yesterday. Today's message provides brief excerpts from President Hinckley's talk about each of the Six B's:

Be Grateful

“Walk with gratitude in your hearts, my dear friends. Be thankful for the wonderful blessings which are yours. Be grateful for the tremendous opportunities that you have. Be thankful to your parents, who care so very much about you and who have worked so very hard to provide for you. Let them know that you are grateful. Say thank you to your mother and your father. Say thank you to your friends. Say thank you to your teachers. Express appreciation to everyone who does you a favor or assists you in any way.
Be Smart

“The Lord wants you to educate your minds and hands, whatever your chosen field. Whether it be repairing refrigerators, or the work of a skilled surgeon, you must train yourselves.

Be Clean

“How truly beautiful is a well-groomed young woman who is clean in body and mind. She is a daughter of God in whom her Eternal Father can take pride. How handsome is a young man who is well groomed. He is a son of God, deemed worthy of holding the holy priesthood of God.

Be True

“Be true to your own convictions. You know what is right, and you know what is wrong. You know when you are doing the proper thing. You know when you are giving strength to the right cause. Be loyal. Be faithful. Be true.”

Be Humble

“I believe the meek and the humble are those who are teachable. They are willing to learn. They are willing to listen to the whisperings of the still, small voice for guidance in their lives. They place the wisdom of the Lord above their own wisdom.”

Be Prayerful

“You need His help, and you know that you need His help. You cannot do it alone. ... Get on your knees and thank Him for His goodness to you and express to Him the righteous desires of your hearts. The miracle of it all is that He hears. He responds. He answers—not always as we might wish He would answer, but there is no question in my mind that He answers.”

Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Prophet’s Counsel: The Six B’s,” Liahona, Jun 2001, 8–9

Love,

Dad/Mark

Blessing from a Living Prophet

Hello Family!

It is fitting this week that we review an excerpt from President Hinckley's final conference address for our quotation this week. This is the final paragraph of his final talk, The Stone Cut Out of the Mountain.

"I leave with you my testimony of the truth of these things, and I invoke the blessings of heaven upon you. May the windows of heaven be opened and blessings showered upon you as the Lord has promised. Never forget that this was His promise and that He has the power and the capacity to see that it is fulfilled. I so pray as I leave my blessing and love with you in the sacred name of our Redeemer, even the Lord Jesus Christ, amen."

How wonderful it has been to have been led by a living prophet! And now, as President Hinckley has joined his lovely wife on the other side of the veil to await the resurrection, how wonderful it is that the Church is led by 14 living apostles - prophets, seers and revelators. How wonderful it will be, in the next few days, to see the mantle of leadership pass to the one whom the Lord has prepared and consecrated to be the next president of the Church.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Set a Gospel Example

Hello Family!

This week's quotation comes from Elder Holland's conference talk in April, 2003:

"Live the gospel as conspicuously as you can. Keep the covenants your children know you have made. Give priesthood blessings. And bear your testimony! Don’t just assume your children will somehow get the drift of your beliefs on their own. The prophet Nephi said near the end of his life that they had written their record of Christ and preserved their convictions regarding His gospel in order “to persuade our children … that our children may know … [and believe] the right way.”

"Nephi-like, might we ask ourselves what our children know? From us? Personally? Do our children know that we love the scriptures? Do they see us reading them and marking them and clinging to them in daily life? Have our children ever unexpectedly opened a closed door and found us on our knees in prayer? Have they heard us not only pray with them but also pray for them out of nothing more than sheer parental love? Do our children know we believe in fasting as something more than an obligatory first-Sunday-of-the-month hardship? Do they know that we have fasted for them and for their future on days about which they knew nothing? Do they know we love being in the temple, not least because it provides a bond to them that neither death nor the legions of hell can break? Do they know we love and sustain local and general leaders, imperfect as they are, for their willingness to accept callings they did not seek in order to preserve a standard of righteousness they did not create? Do those children know that we love God with all our heart and that we long to see the face—and fall at the feet—of His Only Begotten Son? I pray that they know this."

Jeffrey R. Holland, “A Prayer for the Children,” Liahona, May 2003, 85–87

Please know that I have a testimony of the restored gospel. I know that it is true! Jesus does live and love us! We are so grateful for living apostles and prophets that teach us these divine truths.

Love,

Dad/Mark

Pure in Heart

This week's quotation is from Elder Dallin Oaks:

"The word most commonly used to describe the condition of the inner man is heart. Alma referred to the kind of conversion that led to the salvation of a people as "a mighty change . . . wrought in their hearts" (Alma 5:13). To be "pure in heart" is to achieve that condition in which motives, desires, and attitudes are acceptable to God and consistent with the eternal progress that is the ultimate destiny of his children."

("Pure in Heart," Dallin H. Oaks, Bookcraft, Inc., chapter 9)

Love,

Dad/Mark

Happiness is the object and design of our existence

This week's quotation is from Joseph Smith, as quoted by Joseph Fielding Smith.

"Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God. . . .

"... [A]s God has designed our happiness—and the happiness of all His creatures, he never has—He never will institute an ordinance or give a commandment to His people that is not calculated in its nature to promote that happiness which He has designed, and which will not end in the greatest amount of good and glory to those who become the recipients of his law and ordinances."

(An essay recorded in the Journal History [HC5:134-35] Aug. 27, 1842) TPJS:255-56; DGSM:27

Love,

Dad/Mark

(originally emailed 30 Dec 2007)

Raising your children during these difficult times

Elder Quentin Cook in the last General Conference:

I know that many of you are concerned about raising your children during these difficult times and increasing their faith. When my wife and I were starting our family in the San Francisco Bay Area, we had that same concern. At a critical point our stake members were advised by Elder Harold B. Lee, then a member of the Twelve, that we could raise our families in righteousness if we would:

1. Follow the prophet.


2. Create the true spirit of the gospel in our hearts and homes.


3. Be a light to those among whom we live.


4. Focus on the ordinances and principles taught in the temple.

(See D&C 115:5; Harold B. Lee, “Your Light to Be a Standard unto the Nations,” Ensign, Aug. 1973, 3–4.)

As we followed this counsel, our faith increased and our fears decreased. I believe we can raise righteous children anywhere in the world if they are taught religious principles in the home.

I am sure as we follow the counsel from apostles of Christ, we can have the Spirit in our homes. Our homes will be safe havens - holy places where we might stand.

Love,

Dad/Mark

(originally emailed 23 Dec 2007)

Zion Family Introduction

On December 9, 2007, while visiting Heidi and her family in Beaverton, Oregon, I was studying the verse in Moses 7:18:

"And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them."

The key attributes of a Zion people that immediately came to mind are:

• Unity


• Obedience


• Service

I was directed by the Spirit that we should establish "Becoming a Zion Family" as a theme for our family during 2008, and that we should strive to build these qualities in our family. Since then, we have agreed during an extended family home evening to adopt this as the Dent-Dixon family theme for this coming year.

As one part of my contribution to this theme, I have begun to send out a weekly quotation from our leaders or from the scriptures pertaining to this subject. This blog will serve as a repository for these weekly emails and other thoughts I may be prompted to share on the subject.