Monday, December 24, 2018

"Come Let Us Adore Him"


What a glorious season we are in, one that draws us closer to each other and to our Heavenly Father! Usually during the Christmas season With Wondering Awe, we listened to the young children–yes, truly Angels We Have Heard on High–sing hymns and carols that radiate Joy to the World....” We listen to talented ward, community members, and missionaries who “touch their harps of gold” and let “their heavenly music float/O’er all the weary world.” Today, and the rest of our lives, we must allow “the Dear Christ in.” We all must sense something burn within us. That is the spirit of Christ.


In the precious Christmas hymn Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful that we sing at least once or twice at Christmas come three wondrous strains: “Come, all ye faithful,” “Come, and behold Him,” and “Oh, come, let us adore Him.” I sincerely believe that each of these phrases deserves special treatment and explanation.

 “Come, all ye faithful
During this Christmas season, the faithful followers of Christ congregate to sing joyous hymns to Him. Note that the Lord did not say, however, “Come, all ye faithful” for just this season. Instead, the words merely state, rather succinctly, “Come, all ye faithful.” The Lord wants us to be faithful every minute of the day, every day of the week, and every week of the year.

Christmas tree at the Mission Home
Thankfully, at Christmas time, we tend to listen to our hearts more than to our heads, the spiritual more than cerebral, the perennial more than the ephemeral. We seem to want to fix our lives so that they are in accordance with the Lord's. Yes, we tend to “come unto Christ and adore Him.” Wouldn't it be nice if every year, we had twelve Decembers? Then we wouldn't have to be trying to repent every 12th month or trying to add kindness to our repertoire of Christmas thoughtfulness. Instead of an annual event of repenting and striving to be like the Father and His Holy Son, it would become a daily activity. Every day would become an act of kindness. We would actually smile because we would have forgotten how to be sad. Every day we would finally reach out to those most in need. Every day we would understand each other’s feelings. Every day would become a glorious one where the sun would shine and brighten lives. Every day would bring us closer to our Savior. Every day we would know whose we really are: For we are the Father’s, and He loves us deeply. As one poet penned:

Sister Hammon in front of the Mission Home Christmas tree
An Ode to Christmas
Decembers come and go, like winds in east.
But for those brief 30 days, our hearts stretch just a bit more.
We sometimes sense in ourselves a gratification
that cannot be quenched without our first giving
of ourselves to others most in need.
It is at that moment, this sense of oneness
with our own hearts, when we finally understand
our true place in the universe.
We come to know that we, indeed, have hearts to give
and feelings of love to share with others.
This feeling, if carried for more than thirty days,
would endow us with the true gifts from our Father.
Surely, then, we would reach out more than before.
Alas, the essence of the trueness of Christ’s message
would fold our worrisome cares into large gray bundles
and whisk them downstream, away from us at last.
Then for 365 days, we would come and be His again.

Sisters Myers and Fountaine with Sister Hammon. They helped decorate the Christmas tree!

“Come, and behold Him”
The shepherds “came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in the manger”(Luke 2:16). After the shepherds had seen the Christ child, they returned to their flocks and herds and families, “glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen....” (Luke 2:20). There also came “wise men from the east to Jerusalem” (Matthew 2:1) and began asking about: “Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him” (Matthew 2:2). And we know not how many others came to “behold him” as he lay in the manger or worked by His father’s side.

Carolers from the Riverside Stake 
We do know, though, that Lamoni’s father, the great king over all of the Lamanites, after he had heard the preachings of Aaron, lifted his voice to his God: “O, God, Aaron hath told me there is a God; and if there is a God, and if thou art God, wilt thou make thyself known unto me, and I will give all my sins to know thee, and that I may be raised from the dead, and be saved at the last day” (Alma 27:18). Thus, we see that the King also desired to “Come, and Behold Him” and was willing to give away all of his sins to become a pure vessel. And he did. When he rose from his spiritual trance, he stood forth “and did minister unto them, insomuch that his whole household were converted unto the Lord” (Alma 27:23).


Often, we believe that to “behold God” we must be completely spiritually pure. In one sense that is correct, but in another, we can behold God–through daily communion with Him and understanding who He really is. Plus, our hearts can be filled with Him always if we but “yield our hearts to God” (see Helaman 3:35). Consider the words of (Christina Rossetti, “My Gift”)
What can I give Him, poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd
I would bring a lamb,
If I were a Wise Man
I would do my part,—
Yet what I can I give Him, give my heart.

Thus, the question hinges on this: “What are we willing to do in our lives in order to “behold Him”? Are we willing to do what He asks us to do? Are we willing to give away all of our sins? Are we willing to yield our hearts to God?


“Oh, come let us adore Him”
What does it really mean to “Come and to adore Him? As I have sung this hymn over the past several years and in two different languages, I have come to adore Him. Who is Him? Or in more appropriate English Who is He? According to that great Old Testament prophet Isaiah, He is called “Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace....(Isaiah )...the Lord Omnipotent who reigneth, who was, and is from all eternity to all eternity.... Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning” (Gordon B. Hinckley, “At the Summit of the Ages,” Ensign, Nov. 1999, 72).


The ancient Prophet Moroni, as he ended his work and closed the abridgment of the record of God’s dealings with His people, which is the Book of Mormon, called upon all who read his ending passage: “Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny yourselves of all ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ” (Moroni 10:32).


Thus, the challenge: “Come, all ye faithful....come, let us behold Him...[and] come let us adore Him.” The real goal is to “Come Unto Christ.” May we accept the challenge and experience the glorious days that the Nephites of old had with the Savior that we may at some time "thrust [our own] hands into his side, and ...feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet...[that we may] see with [our own] eyes and...feel with [our own] hands, and...know of a surety and...bear record, that it was He, of whom it was written by the prophets, that should come...[that when we have] all gone forth and...witnessed for [ourselves], [we] can cry out with one accord, saying: Hosanna!  Blessed be the name of the Most High God!  And then [we will] fall down at the feet of Jesus [our Savior and Brother], and...worship him" (3 Nephi 11:15-17) who is the Truth and the Light and the Prince of Peace is my prayer and Christmas challenge....



Saturday, December 22, 2018

Multi-zone conferences, Golden Plunger Awards, Birthdays, and Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from the California Riverside Mission
What an incredible week we had in meeting with all the missionaries in three multi-zone conferences and one zone conference (Hemet Zone)! We were inspired and enlightened by all of the trainings, the comments, the testimonies, the interactions, and the musical numbers! Plus, the food was delicious! Many thanks! I have summarized the various trainings we had.

Corona Zone

Jurupa Zone
“What the Book of Mormon clarifies and reveals”—At two of the zone conferences, President Norman led an enlightened and highly participatory discussion about what the Book of Mormon clarifies and reveals. Approximately 50 answers were shared, and we could have gone on for more. The Book of Mormon is definitely the word of God and contains the words of/for life.

Moreno Valley Zone

Mt. Rubidoux Zone
Hope and Joy”—My discussion focused on how hope and joy help define how we live and see life. Also, in essence: ““Happiness (joy) is the object and design of our existence [A condition of great happiness coming from righteous living]; and [it] 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” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 262). President Ballard taught: “As we put our faith and trust to work, hope is born. Hope grows out of faith and gives meaning and purpose to all that we do. It can even give us the peaceful assurance we need to live happily in a world that is ripe with iniquity, calamity, and injustice” (Elder M. Russell Ballard, “The Joy of Hope Fulfilled,” October 1992).

Riverside Zone

Lake Elsinore Zone
“Chapter 8: Key Indicators, Planning, How to Set Goals, and Accountability”—The Assistants helped us understand the importance of setting goals and being accountability not only to ourselves but also to our districts and zones and mission. In speaking about the indicators, they said, “As you focus on these indicators, you will help people progress toward baptism, confirmation, continued activity in church, and lasting conversion” (Preach My Gospel, Chapter 8).

Menifee Zone
Gifts from the Moreno Valley Stake Relief Society
The Spiritual Aspect of Planning”—Several leaders spoke on this one. Sister Moffit asked us this question: “Does each task you do each day glorify Him? Is everything you do directed by the spirit?” Elder Beddes shared a quote from President Nelson that summarizes all of the discussions on this topic: “...in coming days, it will not be possible to [plan] spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost” (President Russell M. Nelson,” Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives,” April 2018).

Hemet Zone
“How to Boldly Extend Invitations to Church While Using the scriptures”—All of the presenters did a nice job of showing us how to use the scriptures in our invitations to Church. One quote from Preach My Gospel—"An effective missionary teaches, testifies, and invites others to do things that build faith in Jesus Christ” (Preach My Gospel, Chapter 11)—highlights boldly extending invitations.

Golden Plunger Award to Sisters Gaughan and Andersen

Happy birthday to Elder Schaeffer and Sisters Maxfield and Dorny
“The Spirit of Being a Consecrated Missionary”—Perhaps, the Prophet Joseph Smith’s famous quote embodies these sessions: “Joseph Smith said, “A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary [to lead] unto life and salvation” (Lectures on Faith, p. 58). One of the quotes shared by most presenters was this one from Bishop Causeé: “Consecrated missionaries model themselves after the most humble of people, of whom it is said, ‘They did fast and pray oft, and did wax stronger and stronger in their humility, and firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ, . . . even to the purifying and the sanctification of their hearts, which sanctification cometh because of their yielding their hearts unto God’”(see Helaman 3:35. Bishop Gérald Caussé, “The Consecrated Missionary,” Mission Presidents’ Seminar, June 24, 2014). 

Happy birthday wishes to Hermana Peters, Elder Moloney and Rich!

Gold Plunger Award to Elders McConahay and Hull with Elder and Sister Powell
“Come Follow Me” Curriculum”—Really, the sole purpose behind the “Come Follow Me” curriculum hinges on these four principles: 1) “Deepening conversion to Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ and strengthening faith in Them; 2) strengthening individuals and families through home-centered, Church-supported curriculum that contributes to joyful gospel living; 3) honoring the Sabbath day, with a focus on the ordinance of the sacrament; and 4) helping all of Heavenly Father’s children on both sides of the veil through missionary work and receiving ordinances and covenants and the blessings of the temple.”

Decorations for lunch by the incredible Hemet Relief Society former Presidency


“Prime Finding and Seeking Time”—In essence, “’Nothing happens in missionary work until you find someone to teach’ (Preach My Gospel, p. 156). Helping missionaries focus on finding significantly more people to teach is key to increasing convert baptisms. We encourage missionaries to increase their faith and effort to find those prepared to receive the gospel through the day. However, prime finding time during the week is between the hours of 5:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. when most people are home. We request that full-time missionaries dedicate this time each day to finding in addition to other finding efforts” (Letter sent to Stake Presidents, December 9, 2018).
  
Golden Plunger Award to Elders Rodriguez, Voellger, and Santos
“Miracle Sharing: White Christmas”—What wonderful miracles several missionaries shared with us at the zone conferences. Thank you for sharing.  
Happy birthdays to Sisters Whitaker and Davies; Elders Contreras, Nielsen, and Campbell

Book of Mormon conversations/testimonies—Sister Corder said, “I want the Book of Mormon to reflect my life.” Elder Rollins testified that “If we follow the spirit, we will see miracles.” Sister Tanner reflected: “I am now friends with Alma, Nephi, Moroni, and others as I have read and pondered the Book of Mormon.” Elder Nelson declared: “The Book of Mormon has changed me.” Sister Parker concluded: “I love reading the Book of Mormon!” The characters have come to life. The greatest thing I gained from reading the Book of Mormon was a deeper understanding and reality of Jesus Christ.” 

Golden Plunger Award to Hermanas Grant and Esplin with Sister Hammon
 “Come and Behold Him”— In the precious Christmas hymn Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful that we sing at least once or twice at Christmas come three wondrous strains: “Come, all ye faithful,” “Come, and behold Him,” and “Oh, come, let us adore Him.” Then, I went on to explain each of them. I may include a summary in a post-Christmas blog….and maybe not. 

Golden Plunger Award to Elder Staley and Elder Hite with Elder Troxel

Testimonies of incoming and outgoing—What great testimonies from everyone.



Thursday, November 29, 2018

New missionaries arrive in the California Riverside Mission!


Incoming Missionaries


Incoming missionaries in the Ontario Airport
Just as incredible missionaries climb the stairs, board planes, and head for home, more incredible missionaries come down the escalators and become part of the California Riverside Mission. The following missionaries arrived recently to our mission: Sisters Longshore, Foster, Gaughan, Anderson, Moore, Reynolds, George, and Cardiel; Elders Hull, Bailey, O’Connell, Chase, Webb, Greathouse, and Voellger. 

Incoming and down the stairs
After arriving, they climbed aboard the vans and motored to the Mission Home where they devoured street tacos. Elder and Sister Samuelson, Elder and Sister Miskin, and Elder and Sister Shirley—all new senior missionaries in the past two weeks—joined us for the dinner and testimonies. Once they finished, we sat in the living room and learned a bit more about each new missionary. Then, the sisters stayed and had interviews while the elders went to various apartments for the evening.

The next morning, we drove to the Mission Office where they participated in the New Missionary Orientation. While they were there, the new trainers came and received the training they needed to begin the training of the new missionaries. I finished interviewing the rest of the missionaries. Then, I assigned them to the missionaries who the Lord and I felt would be the best fit. I talked to Sister Hammon and the Assistants and confirmed this was what needed be done. 

The testimonies were excellent. Here are some samplings: 

S. Samuelson—“Our first mission was the best experience we have had together.”
E. Samuelson—“I am grateful to bear testimony.”

Elder and Sister Samuelson and Sister and President Hammon
S. Miskin—“I have known forever my Savior. I learned more about Him through the Book of Mormon.”
E. Miskin—“The power that is with us as missionaries because we are commissioned by God.”

Sister Hammon, Sister and Elder Miskin, and President Hammon
S. Shirley—“The Savior is your shepherd and knows your name, and He understands your challenges.”
E. Shirley—“We can be happy in this life and receive eternal blessings.”

President and Sister Hammon and Sister and Elder Miskin
S. Reynolds—“We are meant to have our companions and people to help us stretch.”

Sisters Reynolds (new) and Bascom
S. Anderson—“I know Heavenly Father has a plan, and I am where I am supposed to be.”

Sisters Tanner and Anderson (new)
S. Foster—“In His strength, I can do all things” (see Alma 26:12).

Sisters Foster (new) and Hackley
Hna. Cardiel—“The Church and the scriptures are true because I have asked.”

Hermanas Cardiel (new) and Brown
S. Gaughan—“I was called to California. I don’t why—yet. I see small miracles in my life.”

Sisters Gaughan (new) and Andersen
Hna. Longshore—“I felt more love from my Savior in the last six weeks in the MTC. I want to share that love.”

Hermanas Peters and Longshore (new)
S. Moore—“It is all about changing and coming closer to Christ. Without Christ we are nothing.”

Sisters Moore (new) and Dorny
S. George—“However imperfect or inadequate we are, He will help us.”
Sisters George (new) and Davies
E. Hull—“My testimony has grown so much. The Spirit has testified to me that I should be here.”

Elders McConahay and Hull (new)
E. O’Connell—“I am so happy to serve everyone.”

Elders O'Connell (new) and Steiner
E. Webb—“While I don’t know what I have gotten myself into, but it already feels like home.”

Elders Akana and Webb (new)
E. Greathouse—“I’m a child of God, and I know He needs me here.”

Elders Komers and Greathouse (new)
E. Bailey—“The Book ofMormon is true. The work is exciting.”

Elders Johnson and Bailey (new)
E. Chase—“The time in the mission is about Christ, the Son of God. The Lord will help us.”

Elders Lai and Chase (new)
E. Voellger—“I am honored to be here in California. God is the Supreme Being, and He loves us.”
Elders Voellger and Rodriguez
When they arrive, they always have lots of luggage, boxes sent previously, and bicycles waiting for them.

Luggage and stuff
We also have them take their picture from the middle of the famed "transfer board" and placed them where they will reside for their first transfer.

Sisters Foster and Longshore placing their pictures

Hermanas Peters (pointing) and Longshore

Sister Hammon observing while Sister Moore places her photo

Sisters Cardiel, George, and Foster with Sister Davies
We love our new missionaries and look forward with them!

President and Sister Hammon