Missionary Cookbook
I spent a fair piece of an afternoon and evening this week compiling recipes fit for a missionary. The criteria I used was: easy, few and "normal" ingredients and foods that a missionary might want to cook it. I think fast is important too, as missionaries shouldn't, and probably don't want to spend a lot of time cooking. I included a few treats, but it was mostly entre' type things. Now, I want to share it with the family, and get your opinions as to whether I met the criteria. I also want you to contribute some recipes you deem missionary cookbook worthy.
So, the question is: how do I post my excel pages online so you can view, comment and/or edit them? Should I set up another blog for just recipes?
April 2011
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Monday, January 19, 2009
Be Thou and Example
Examples of the Believers – Christian Courage
Talk given by Quin Christensen of the Tualatin, Oregon Stake High Council, in the Bull Mountain Ward, January 18, 2009
My son, Tayler, has just been called on a mission to Brisbane, Australia. When he posted his mission call on his face book page he received some interesting responses from some of his non-member contemporaries. Among the responses were challenges of our claim to Christianity. It seems that many of us, especially our youth face this kind of challenge on a daily basis. Because of misconceptions, misinformation, twisted statements, or out of context scriptural references, many of the youth and adults in our communities are without the truth, and know not where to find it.
We have been given a commandment that tells us that when we have been warned we are to warn our neighbors.
We testify that Gods truth, and His Church has been restored in its fullness to the earth through living prophets just as it has been in every dispensation up to this point. We testify that God’s truth is just that, THE TRUTH – and that all truth can be encompassed into one great whole, just as a puzzle fits neatly together. It cannot be altered by man and still be “The Truth”. Satan preys on the gullibility of mankind. One of Satan’s most effective tools is partial truth. He knows that if he can effectively substitute the philosophies of men for key doctrines he can prevent the full power of God’s truth from changing a natural man into a fully consecrated and sanctified one.
The spreading of partial truth serves a dual purpose. First, it superficially satisfies the conscience or the Light of Christ, that inner desire in each of us to seek and find good in the world. Second, it sets it’s follower on a slightly divergent path that seems to head in the right direction but its end point falls short of God presence. Satan counts on our inherent laziness or gullibility, as the case may be, to prevent our own searching, studying, pondering, and especially praying. He would substitute the spoon feeding of information, or manmade reason, or sophisticated debate for personal revelation. In fact he will do anything to prevent that direct link to all truth.
This is not new information. We’ve heard it many times before, but I hope and pray that today it will make us a little bit less judgmental, a little bit more understanding, a little bit more compassionate, and a little bit more selfless as we encounter the buffetings of the world, or of our peers, or of our friends, or even of our families.
Elder Robert D. Hales said “. . .one of mortality’s great tests comes when our beliefs are questioned or criticized.” But, he said, “true disciples of Christ see opportunity in the midst of opposition”.
He also said, “More regrettable than the Church being accused of not being Christian is when Church members react to such accusations in an un-Christ-like way!” (Robert D. Hales, “Christian Courage: The Price of Discipleship,” Ensign, Nov 2008, 72–75)
How we respond to our critics is more important than who is right. Our example will always speak louder and with more effect than our words.
Now this is a perfect opportunity to introduce the YMYW theme for this year.
Let no man adespise thy youth; but be thou an bexample of the believers, in word, in cconversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in dpurity.
Brother Charles Dalquist, the General YM president, speaking of this verse said this:
“And just as it was a charge to young Timothy, so it is a charge to our youth of today to be strong and to “let no man despise [their] youth.” But what exactly does that mean? One meaning of the term “despise” is “to overlook or underestimate the importance of.” Paul’s message to Timothy was “Don’t allow the fact that you are younger than those you teach weaken your resolve or the power of your teaching—or your example.” Let No Man Despise Thy Youth” Young Men Open House, Spring 2006 Charles W. Dahlquist, II Young Men General President
The youth of the church are begging for the meat of the gospel. They want to learn, and be empowered to serve, and let their light shine. Too often they are overlooked. Too often the instruction of youth is watered down, cursory, or shortened. Too often it is insufficient to let the spirit testify of truths. Don’t miss opportunities to open the scriptures and expound upon them. Don’t be surprised when these fine youth astound you with their understanding, their quickness to grasp deep precepts, their believing hearts, and their faith to follow.
Be Thou an Example
My young brothers and sisters, wither you know it or not you are all examples of one thing or another. You stand out and you are being watched, closely.
Pres. Henry B. Eyring said the following, “. . . we will need to be better examples of what we invite others to do. In a darkening world, this command of the Savior will become more important: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
“Most of us are modest enough to think that our small candle of example might be too dim to be noticed. But you and your family are watched more than you may realize. Some time ago I had the chance to attend and speak at meetings with nearly 300 ministers and leaders of other churches. I visited alone with as many as I could. I asked them why they had been so attentive to my message, which was to recount the origins of the Church, to tell of the young Joseph Smith’s First Vision and of living prophets. In every case, they gave essentially the same answer. They told a story of a person or a family—Church members they knew. Often I heard, “They were the finest family I have ever known.” Often they spoke of some community effort or disaster response in which Church members worked in a remarkable way.”
“The people I met at those meetings could not yet recognize the truth in the doctrine, but they had seen its fruit in members’ lives, and so they were ready to listen. They were ready to hear truths of the Restoration—that families can be sealed forever and that the gospel can change our very natures. They were ready because of your examples.” Henry B. Eyring, “Let Us Raise Our Voice of Warning,” Ensign, Jan 2009, 4–9
Just who are the Believers
My dear Young Men and Young Women, are you really one of the believers? Do you really know who you are and what your potential is? Parents and Youth Leaders, you can help them understand just who they are and what their potential is by helping them to feel and recognize the gifts of the spirit, by inviting them to partake of the powerful gifts of the atonement, by giving them opportunities to bless, and be blessed by the power of the priesthood, and by letting them hear and see, over and over again, the firm resolve and conviction of your own testimony.
Moroni 7 describes what happens in a true believers heart. Listen for the progression of spiritual traits that develop.
42 Wherefore, if a man have afaith he bmust needs have hope; for without faith there cannot be any hope.
43 And again, behold I say unto you that he cannot have faith and hope, save he shall be ameek, and lowly of heart.
44 If so, his afaith and hope is vain, for none is bacceptable before God, save the cmeek and lowly in heart; and if a man be meek and lowly in heart, and dconfesses by the power of the Holy Ghost that Jesus is the Christ, he must needs have charity; for if he have not charity he is nothing; wherefore he must needs have charity.
47 But acharity is the pure blove of Christ, and it endureth cforever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.
48 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, apray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true bfollowers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall cbe like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be dpurified even as he is pure. Amen.
Be an Example of the Believers In Faith
As these seeds of faith are planted and take root you will naturally grow in your desire to be with and be like our Father in Heaven and Jesus Christ. That is true hope. That is what our faith causes us to hope for. This hope and faith will then naturally lead to humility and meekness, traits we must strive diligently to master if we want to be counted with the true Christians.
Elder Hales said, “To be meek, as defined in Webster's Dictionary, is "manifesting patience and longsuffering: enduring injury without resentment."2 Meekness is not weakness. It is a badge of Christian courage.”
He also said, “Some people mistakenly think responses such as silence, meekness, forgiveness, and bearing humble testimony are passive or weak. But, to "love [our] enemies, bless them that curse [us], do good to them that hate [us], and pray for them which despitefully use [us], and persecute [us]" (Matthew 5:44) takes faith, strength, and, most of all, Christian courage.” (Robert D. Hales, “Christian Courage: The Price of Discipleship,” Ensign, Nov 2008, 72–75)
The natural off shoot of meekness and humility is repentance, which, further, deepens our conviction that Jesus is the Christ. Slowly our very natures will change, and as we put off the natural man we naturally become more compassionate, more sensitive to others feelings, more desirous of others physical and spiritual well being, more charitable. That charity is essential as we interact with our Christian neighbors.
Be an Example of the Believers In Charity
According to Elder Hales, “. . . when we respond to our accusers as the Savior did, we not only become more Christ like, we invite others to feel His love and follow Him as well.
He further stated, “When we do not retaliate—when we turn the other cheek and resist feelings of anger—we too stand with the Savior. We show forth His love, which is the only power that can subdue the adversary and answer our accusers without accusing them in return. That is not weakness. That is Christian courage.”
(Robert D. Hales, “Christian Courage: The Price of Discipleship,” Ensign, Nov 2008, 72–75)
A favorite poem of mine reads:
He drew a circle that shut me out—
Heretic, rebel, a thing to flout.
But Love and I had the wit to win:
We drew a circle that took him in!
[in The Best Loved Poems of the American People,
sel. Hazel Felleman (1936), 67]
Be an Example of the Believers In Word and Conversation
With charity as our companion we are prepared to testify boldly, when necessary, without giving offense.
I quote from Elder Hales again. “We should never confuse boldness with Satan's counterfeit: overbearance (see Alma 38:12). True disciples speak with quiet confidence, not boastful pride.”
“As true disciples, our primary concern must be others' welfare, not personal vindication.”
“ To be guileless is to look for our own fault first. When accused, we should ask as the Savior's Apostles did, "Lord, is it I?" (Matthew 26:22). If we listen to the answer given by the Spirit, we can, if needed, make corrections, apologize, seek forgiveness, and do better.” (Robert D. Hales, “Christian Courage: The Price of Discipleship,” Ensign, Nov 2008, 72–75)
You might be ridiculed or falsely judged by someone who only wants to pick a fight or start an argument. In those situations the best thing you can do is nothing. Say nothing. Don’t reply at all. That is exactly how the Savior responded to Herod.
Elder Hales further states, “We . . . have a great work to do, which will not be accomplished if we allow ourselves to stop and argue and be distracted. Instead we should muster Christian courage and move on.” (Robert D. Hales, “Christian Courage: The Price of Discipleship,” Ensign, Nov 2008, 72–75)
Be an Example of the Believers In Spirit
One of the very differences for which we are discarded is our belief that the heavens are not closed and that revelation is Key to our salvation. Interestingly, it is that very spirit of revelation that we must rely on if we are to be examples of the believers.
Elder Hales said, “As true disciples seek guidance from the Spirit, they receive inspiration tailored to each encounter. And in every encounter, true disciples respond in ways that invite the Spirit of the Lord.” (Robert D. Hales, “Christian Courage: The Price of Discipleship,” Ensign, Nov 2008, 72–75)
“The Lord told Oliver Cowdry that only God knows the thoughts and intents of our hearts (D&C 6:16). This ability to discern what is in the mind or heart of another is a remarkable manifestation of the the Holy Spirit.”
Stephen L. Richards, a member of the First Prsidency, explained what this gift is:
“This gift,. . . when highly developed arises largely out of an acute sensitivity to impressions—to read under the surface as it were, to detect hidden evil, and more importantly to find the good that may be concealed. The highest type of discernment is that which perceives in others and uncovers for them their better natures, the good inherent within them.” (Hearing the Voice of the Lord, Gerald N. Lund, pp. 84,85)
Elder James E. Faust said:
“Satan has had great success with this gullible generation. As a consequence, literally hosts of people have been victimized by him and his angels. There is, however, an ample shield against the power of Lucifer and his hosts. This protection lies in the spirit of discernment through the gift of the Holy Ghost. This gift comes undeviatingly by personal revelation to those who strive to obey the commandments of the Lord and to follow the counsel of the living prophets.” (Hearing the Voice of the Lord, Gerald N. Lund, pp. 84,85)
Be an Example of the Believers In Purity
As faith leads to hope, hope to humility, and humility to repentance and charity, the end result is purification. The more pure our souls, the brighter our lights shine. Light cast out darkness, and illuminates deceit. Our example of the believers in purity will allow the truth seeker to see God as He really is, to feel His love through us, and it will plow the ground for the seeds of faith to be planted in a fertile heart.
Brothers and Sisters, let no man have reason to deny our Christianity. Be believers and then set an example that leads others to Christ. That is true Christianity. That is why we have been sent to earth. That is the fullness of His gospel.
I testify that this is Gods church. We have taken upon us the name of Christ. We love and worship him. His name is the only name through which we can receive salvation.
We have access to direct revelation personally and through our living prophet, Thomas S. Monson.
Because of the restoration of all gospel truths through Joseph Smith we know the true nature of Deity.
The Book of Mormon is true and as we study and learn from it we find matchless peace and joy, and we come closer to Savior and our Father in Heaven. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
The Blessings of the Temple
Going through the temple with Tayler was amazing, just like it was with Rochelle and Marissa, accept this time I was the escort and got to follow the whole thing from start to finish. It was moving to watch Tayler's understanding and acceptance of each new step and experience. There was a sweet peace that accompanied us all the way through. It is such an amazing experience to take one of your children to the temple for the first time. It is almost surreal -- like being there for the first time myself, yet with 28 years of personal experience. I always listen more closely and there seems to be a clarity of mind that I don't often experience at any other time. It is such a pleasure and reward to stand in the Celestial Room with children who have made covenants that will bless their life and posterity forever, not to mention adding a link to the chain of our ancestors. We felt a sweet assurance that Grandma and Grandpa Arave, and Grandpa Christensen were aware and pleased with Tayler 's commitment to sacred covenants. On several occasions I felt such an overwhelming joy that the tears flowed freely.
The significance of the temple ordinances never ceases to amaze me. Knowing that Rochelle and Marissa are not only sealed to us, but that they have made those covenants that ensure that their precious children will be sealed to us as well, causes my heart to leap with joy. And my heart is so full of gratitude and love for BJ and Richard who are leading their families in righteousness. I'm not sure how the whole in-law thing really works in heaven but it is an honor to call you both our sons. We express our gratitude to your parents for doing the hard part, and then sharing you with us. The point is we are eternally unified because of the Temple, and Eternal Families are so cool!
The significance of the temple ordinances never ceases to amaze me. Knowing that Rochelle and Marissa are not only sealed to us, but that they have made those covenants that ensure that their precious children will be sealed to us as well, causes my heart to leap with joy. And my heart is so full of gratitude and love for BJ and Richard who are leading their families in righteousness. I'm not sure how the whole in-law thing really works in heaven but it is an honor to call you both our sons. We express our gratitude to your parents for doing the hard part, and then sharing you with us. The point is we are eternally unified because of the Temple, and Eternal Families are so cool!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Missionary in the house
I like having a missionary--that is a "called", almost official missionary, in the house. Things are happening, and moving slowly but steadily toward March 25, the official MTC, start the mission date. So far Tayler has applied for his passport, sent his letter of acceptance to the First Presidency, filled out various forms for immunizations and a driving record, requested an insurance card. He has received paperwork to start working on a Visa once his passport comes, and has received a welcome letter from the mission president in Australia. From that letter he found out that he will be using a bike in the mission, and that no one can send him cookies! Australia has a quarentine on ANY organic matter, including any kind of food, seeds, vitamin suppliments, even dirt on hiking boots or straw as packaging material. There will be 2 addresses for him-one for letters, and one for packages. So, "grandmas cookies" next year won't be cookies for Tayer!
The most exciting step toward March 25 is his receiving his recommend to go to the temple today! I expect we will be setting a date for that in the next day or so.
In between all of these activities, the best things have been happening, at least the best for a mother or a father. We have had some great discussions, encouragements, and admonishing s. We have greatly enjoyed these times, and it is wonderful to see Tayler prepare himself.
I have been doing what you would expect, filling his head with nutrition pleadings, cooking tips, cleaning advice, and general "how to" 's any chance I can! I've even encouraged him to practice the piano, and resurrect a few hymns. He's a good son, and he justs smiles and says "okay", and he at least humors me for a day or two--hopefully it'll stick a little longer-say 2 years.
So, this week he's working some for Mark King doing construction. We'll work on getting to Beehive clothing, and Remingtons for suits and shirts etc. He has a dentist appointment tomorrow and wisdom teeth extraction next week!
Click, click, click, the list is getting shorter. It's exciting, and it wonderful and it's sobering.
As I was praying at family prayer last night. I felt inclined to pray that the people who Tayler will teach in Australia will start being prepared for him to come. The thought overwhelmed me, and I felt quite a powerful feeling of love sweep through me. The mission became more real to me, and I felt humbled to think that my son would impact the lives of people on the other side of the world. It's quite a thought that they are having experiences now that will affect how they recieve the gospel then-when Tayler meets them. I'm so grateful that Tayler is worthy, ready, and willing to preach the gospel to those people.
I know the gospel is true, and Tayler has been taught it from his infancy, and he knows it is true. He is well prepared, and he is humble enough to know that he needs the Savior to guide him along. He'll do fine, and so will I--although I will cry again, like last night at prayer, and like I know I will at the MTC. I can hardly fathom sending my son away for 2 years. Truly, it is an inspired work, or I couldn't do it-my heart is just too soft. Talk about putting your trust in the Lord. I know I'm going to learn about that. I guess that's what missionary mothers do, or stripling warrior mothers, or any mother who sends her son off into the unknown. I'm prepared to learn, but I don't know if I'm ready--yet...
The most exciting step toward March 25 is his receiving his recommend to go to the temple today! I expect we will be setting a date for that in the next day or so.
In between all of these activities, the best things have been happening, at least the best for a mother or a father. We have had some great discussions, encouragements, and admonishing s. We have greatly enjoyed these times, and it is wonderful to see Tayler prepare himself.
I have been doing what you would expect, filling his head with nutrition pleadings, cooking tips, cleaning advice, and general "how to" 's any chance I can! I've even encouraged him to practice the piano, and resurrect a few hymns. He's a good son, and he justs smiles and says "okay", and he at least humors me for a day or two--hopefully it'll stick a little longer-say 2 years.
So, this week he's working some for Mark King doing construction. We'll work on getting to Beehive clothing, and Remingtons for suits and shirts etc. He has a dentist appointment tomorrow and wisdom teeth extraction next week!
Click, click, click, the list is getting shorter. It's exciting, and it wonderful and it's sobering.
As I was praying at family prayer last night. I felt inclined to pray that the people who Tayler will teach in Australia will start being prepared for him to come. The thought overwhelmed me, and I felt quite a powerful feeling of love sweep through me. The mission became more real to me, and I felt humbled to think that my son would impact the lives of people on the other side of the world. It's quite a thought that they are having experiences now that will affect how they recieve the gospel then-when Tayler meets them. I'm so grateful that Tayler is worthy, ready, and willing to preach the gospel to those people.
I know the gospel is true, and Tayler has been taught it from his infancy, and he knows it is true. He is well prepared, and he is humble enough to know that he needs the Savior to guide him along. He'll do fine, and so will I--although I will cry again, like last night at prayer, and like I know I will at the MTC. I can hardly fathom sending my son away for 2 years. Truly, it is an inspired work, or I couldn't do it-my heart is just too soft. Talk about putting your trust in the Lord. I know I'm going to learn about that. I guess that's what missionary mothers do, or stripling warrior mothers, or any mother who sends her son off into the unknown. I'm prepared to learn, but I don't know if I'm ready--yet...
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