We Cannot Wait until Zion Comes

Dear Family:

I have been very negligent in posting to the Zion Family blog.  I will repent!

I was impressed with Elder Todd Christofferson's conference talk about Zion.  He challenges us to actively establish Zion, not just wait for it to occur:

Zion is Zion because of the character, attributes, and faithfulness of her citizens. Remember, "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" (Moses 7:18). If we would establish Zion in our homes, branches, wards, and stakes, we must rise to this standard. It will be necessary (1) to become unified in one heart and one mind; (2) to become, individually and collectively, a holy people; and (3) to care for the poor and needy with such effectiveness that we eliminate poverty among us. We cannot wait until Zion comes for these things to happen—Zion will come only as they happen.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson, "Come to Zion", General Conference, October, 2008.

This is great advice for our family:

• Become unified
• Become a holy people
• Care for the poor and needy

I am so gratified to see our family work at and make progress in these areas.  Step by step, day by day, we can, and will, establish Zion in our homes.

Love,

Dad/Mark

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