Prophecy Was Made

Ancient prophecy was made
Then generations passed
To faithful hearts a promise lay
With signs for eyes to cast

A virgin birth
For one named Mary
She come to earth
God's son... to carry

Meanwhile... atrocities and war
Bondage.... Babylon, Egypt, Greece, then Rome
Conquered again and again...who was favored?
Then...He came... obscure and unknown

With His life
Came rebirth
Jesus Christ
Brought us new worth

Perfectly He led
Healed and discoursed
Spiritually He fed
As His life ran its course

thoughts from reading

Son of Man
Susan Easton Black

Sin Shades Well What Lit the Heart

Sin shades well
What lit the heart
And love fades
As contention starts

The first to go
Joy... belonging
Caresses flow
Intimacy...longing

A door closes
between two souls
One... searching...knocking
Unto but holes

Yet, some reminiscing is heard
The door opens some distance
For tender, loving words
The marriage has a chance

On a Quest for What's Within Us

On a quest for what's within us
Each challenge becomes a platform
That increasingly sensitizes
And launches us forward to perform

With growth in truth and light
The Holy Ghost is the ingredient
To lead our future t'wards what's bright
In as much as we're obedient

These are the times to discern
How best to be positive
As we love, listen, and learn
Lighten, laugh, lead and lift

Let us, as a church, look to God's plan
While remaining immersed in the gospel
There to reach out with Christ-like hands
And teach of faith to all lands and people

Bishop H. David Burton
These are the Times
Dec 1, 2009

Let us Give to the Lord

Let us give to the Lord
What, simply, all can afford
The gift of gratitude
And a humble attitude

There Were Four Frogs on a Lillypad

There were four frogs on a lily pad
And two decided that they would jump
But when I looked, I felt I had been had
For their decision proved not enough

Given freedom, it's hard to follow through
Unless we learn to have objectives
Prioritize, and report to someone, too
For then... we become more selective

With the gospel there's a freshness to life
As we pray, ponder, and discuss
There to grow in wisdom, stature, and light
Seeing not just what is before us


Thoughts from sister Hubler's talk
in Monterey Ward

If a Man Offered to Carry My Load

If a man offered to carry my load
Should I not give thanks and follow Him?
For will he not take it upon the best road
And help me to lighten it often?

When I in my silliness
Managed to accumulate more
He in the purest meekness
Said, "Is that but what I'm here for...?"

Truly, I followed him closer
Asking what, for him, I could do
He said, "Let go and find closure
For when you're weighed down, indeed, I am too!"

The Candle Flickers Bright

The candle flicker's bright
In the softness of the night
In memory... of one dear
Whose Light is ever near

Merry Christmas, Jesus Christ
And happy birthday, too
We celebrate your life
And teachings all anew

Unchangeable Goodness

Unchangeable goodness
What can proclaimed of more?
Ever Christ is the good news
We've miracles in store

It is time to believe
That the gospel is true
With eternity we weave
With the Savior, we DO!

Born of foreordination...
We were saved for this day
He knows of each situation
And ever would that we pray

Mormon 9:
19 And if there were miracles wrought then, why has God ceased to be a God of miracles and yet be an unchangeable Being? And behold, I say unto you he changeth not; if so he would cease to be God; and he ceaseth not to be God, and is a God of miracles.
20 And the reason why he ceaseth to do miracles among the children of men is because that they dwindle in unbelief, and depart from the right way, and know not the God in whom they should trust.
21 Behold, I say unto you that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be granted him; and this promise is unto all, even unto the ends of the earth.

There's Twenty Five Dots in All

There's twenty five dots in all
To remember, ponder, and talk
Feel the Light of Christmas come
Ever warm and delightsome

December is finally here
Let us make each new day count
As nightly our family draws near
Let us talk of Christ and recount

recount- verb: narrate or give a detailed account of
Description: a tapered candle with 25 dots painted on it. To be burned down to the next dot...

found a site for advent calendar ideas
http://www.ldssplash.com/traditions/christmas_traditions/advent/advent_calendars.htm

In the Quiet of the Morning

In the quiet of the morning
I awoke to thoughts of joy
Like a child with excitement forming
I turned to the scriptures to enjoy

Opening a gift
could not give such pleasure
I turned to a page
And found the words to treasure

There... love filled my soul
And I knew... that God knew
I felt complete and whole
With strength to go and do

Terrorists are Like Roaches

Terrorists are like roaches
Predictably they keep coming back
As when extinction approaches
They relocate and wait to attack

Those once infested understand...
Before you spray you must warn your neighbor
Let them prepare with pesticide on hand
For prevention requires consistent behavior

And one like the Grinch...
Would to destroy our Christmas
But that abdominal clinch
Detonated all amiss

Could it be an angel
Flying with the plane
Changed a flow or an angle
And left alive the one to blame

Perhaps this extremist
Can be restored unto good
And in an end with a twist
Help to mend up brotherhood

He now as one who has faced death
Perhaps he's filled with remorsing
And thankful for this day's breath
Has changed what he is endorsing

May we get inside his head
And exterminate one cell's dark nest
For truly someone led
And provided tools and bombs to test

Thoughts from being glued to the news
and due... to fly
Drew Griffen CNN

speaking of the crotchbomb- Christmas 2009

In Nine Lines or Less

In nine lines or less
I would like to share
Some words that express
The depth in which I care

Some quiet time to think
Is needed by all
To pause.... let life sink
Into memory's halls
There... where... you I recall

Whatsoever

Whatsoever ye are called forth to say
I shall put into your hearts
For I have suffered you to come unto this place
To speak forth thoughts the Spirit imparts

D&C 100:4-8
Therefore, I, the Lord, have suffered you to come unto this place; for thus it was expedient in me for the salvation of souls. Therefore, verily I say unto you, lift up your voices unto this people; speak the thoughts that I shall put into your hearts, and you shall not be confounded before men; For it shall be given you in the very hour, yea, in the very moment, what ye shall say. But a commandment I give unto you, that ye shall declare whatsoever thing ye declare in my name, in solemnity of heart, in the spirit of meekness, in all things. And I give unto you this promise, that inasmuch as ye do this the Holy Ghost shall be shed forth in bearing record unto all things whatsoever ye shall say."

Living by the scriptures
Published: Saturday, Dec. 26, 2009
LDS Church News - click on the above title to go to this site

The Invisible Woman

There was a young mother
Who saw she was invisible
As to another
She made her day divisible

Sometimes she was a clock
That was expected to respond
Her only chance to talk
Was to tell him what lay beyond

Her words fell on deaf ears
When she asked for a favor
And when she cooked, I fear
He pecked it and did not savor

Patiently, she listened
And smiled through his demands
And for him, love glistened
While with hands on hips, he stands

Who sees her sacrifice
Her unwashed hair and ponytail?
Her clock speeds up to twice
To be seen as dependable

Then, one day in a book
She saw what to all man enthralls
The pains unnamed hands took
To selflessly build cathedrals

In corners, everywhere
One may see each delicate carving
Though hands and arms did wear
For the credit, were they starving?

For God and not duty
They gave their all, in their prime time
They simply made beauty
That would not be done in their lifetime

Her dozen warm cupcakes
Her sleepless nights with a sick child
All the errands she makes
Will this raise a child that is mild?

If she's doing things right
The world will marvel what she built
For now it's in God's sight
With Him, her efforts will not wilt

thoughts from Invisible Woman
author unknown

Despite the Loneliest Foxholes - Christmas Still Comes

In the loneliest foxholes of the heart
Personal trials are felt and fought
There... one can find the sweetest remedy:
As the clarion call is heard- "Come Unto Me"

For all who labor and are heavy laden
His arms offer rest, comfort, and haven
We can find proof of this in history
Here... is of one lifted despite the worst misery...

The flag of truce was meaningless it turned out
During the bleakest and darkest time noted
Just as the coldest winter came about
The prophet of God was incarcerated

Into a dungeon of thick walls and a trap door
With only smallest bit of light
Oft poisoned food was dropped down to the floor
Adding to the hopelessness of his plight

There... a soul could become dark and hollow
Without the bowels being filled with charity
Thus despite dismal distress and sorrow
He continued to pray in faith and purity

For, a heart heavy with hate or anger
Vengeance and even self-pity
Is absolutely in danger
Of being shut from light's vicinity

Thus, midst struggling with his feelings of desperation
More was added to the weight of his burden
Word of the vigorous work of extermination...
Came ringing to his ears... their suffering....desertion

No pleas could be so pitiful
No news could cause more pangs
He being the one responsible
To lead and guide the Saints
----------------------------

The time comes of extremity
When one can do nothing but pray
There to put full trust in Deity
And know God is there, come what may

There to feel the warmest feelings of love
As an answer truly does come
"Be patient,"... as this is what life is made of
And the Lord has conquered and won!

That is the beauty of Christmas
The offering of hope through a clarion call
The Redeemer's light shines out for us
And He speaks... the greatest message of all
---------------------------------------

This jail proved well named after its city
Liberty... Joseph's release was finally approved
Having been lowered to the depths of humility
He was freed... after being raised, spiritually moved

click on the above title for a direct link
Lessons from Liberty Jail
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
CES Fireside for Young Adults • September 7, 2008 • Brigham Young University

The Nativity - Joy To The World Segment 1 - Christmas

Candles are being lit
All the world over
The story's being read
Cover to cover

Let the good news now spread
That the prince of peace did come
Of loaves and truth, He fed
And redeemed us as the Son

Now... last of all
Let the bright star be raised
As in prayer we call
His blessed name be praised

Let the Children Come

'Let The Children Come'
by: Liz Lemon Swindle

Let the children come
My time is for them too...
Deny not a one
I'll give a message new
---------------------
Come and gather round
And let me see your smiles
Please make not a sound
Soon I'll be gone for miles

See this lovely flower
The heavens water it with dew
Know that every minute, every hour
Heavenly Father watches over you

When you're in need- He knows
And would that you ever pray
For then His love sweetly shows
In miraculous timely ways

Look to the Light

Look to the light
Shone long ago
There's a promise, bright-
Below all, Christ does know...

Our prayers are heard
Answers do come
Look ever to His word
Our souls He has won!

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What Shall We Give?

Times change and the years speed by
But Christmas ever remains sacred
Though some doubt him and deny
He is the promised king of David

We can reach out with carpenter- like hands
And save lost souls who are now in need
We can show his footsteps lonely in the sand
And proclaim how he does carry and feed

Our opportunities are limitless
To gladden hearts through the gifts we give
May we grow in stature like unto Jesus
To bear His light as our highest motive

Who will bring to bloom the light of Christmas
That the windows of the soul can shine bright
Those who warm hearts unto Jesus
Will raise another's joy to new heights

What shall we give the small baby
As a gift that's bright with our love
Lifting another unto Him may be
The greatest blessing we can speak of

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A Light Unto All: A Christmas Gift

A light unto all
Shines, the Christmas gift
He the Son of God
Does all the world lift

He can lighten our burdens
And free us of sin
Give us peace in life's turmoils
And make us bright within

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safe places to watch lds utube, mormon messages:
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Awesome Christmas Music Clip! Very moving and powerful!!!

Mary on a donkey
Journeyed through the crowds
Midst a child pressing
To a stable... she was not too proud

T'was a private place to lay
And birth Emmanuel
And there upon the hay
God's glory came to dwell

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Christmas Begins with Christ

Christmas begins with Christ
May we each search for His light
That He may touch our hearts
And raise us to new heights

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The Reason for the Season — Christmas Slideshow

The newborn babe

In Mary's arms

Carefully lay

Safe from harm

The angels came

Midst a star, bright

To, Him, proclaim

In full delight

His life began

For the world over

He the Son of Man

In light and power

The sick He'd touched

For He could heal

To Him they rushed

His love was real

He took the time

For all children

He ever kind

Come of heaven

His sacrifice

Was one of love

He paid the price

And rose above

He'll come again

To bring us peace

To reign as king

While sin doth cease

He is ever the reason 

To raise our voice and sing 

In this the bright season, 

May we shine... praising

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Peace on Earth Good Will Towards All - My Christmas Message to the World

She wrapped Him
And kissed His face
Held Him close
In an embrace

His life of love
Had begun
This child of God
His precious son

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Christmas - What Child is This? (Jesus Christ)

His life to review
Began with a star
We've a part too
As we're in His heart

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Christmas - The Star of Bethlehem - The Book of Mormon

The long awaited star
Was seen from afar
There was a night as day
That told of the coming babe

The miracle, the sign
Was of God's design
Lift up your head, be of good cheer
The star in the heaven truly did appear

Merry LDS Christmas

Can there be enough said
In picture and word
Of Him... our life bread
And all He offers

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If You Could Hie To Kolob

There is no end to the love
That shines from heaven above
I see it where ever I go
in life's memories that grow

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I really love 5:14 on the clip- what photography!

Christmas Spirit

With decorations still lying about
The parents discussed gifts and bills to be paid
It was their smallest child who sought out
The wee babe for the manger she made

While going through a box of things
The nativity piece fell out of reach
And of the true Christmas meaning
The hard working child would teach

The parents had noted her passing
Once carrying a long wooden spoon
Then when she took an umbrella for grasping
They followed her and saw her lying in a room

The father offered to help
And looked far into a dark place
The piece he saw he knew well
It was the sweet babe with arms out to embrace

Holding the precious infant
He held it to his child... he in tears
Feeling taught in that instant
To the humble seeker, Christ enters

The family followed her to the scene
She had prepared with old toys
It was lit up like a dream
Splendid and created for joy

Sharpen This Pencil and Write I Love You

Sharpen this pencil
And write- I love you
Point to yourself
And know it is true

With this sweet thought
Write about your life
Of memories soft
And all that is right

Then with the pencil
Broken and used up
Reread this ever still
And think of this as a warm hug

How Do I Show You I Care

How do I show you I care
When we don't speak the same language
Perhaps just the smile we share
Will give you my welcoming message

Barbara Hagen
Friend, January 2010, 20

(-----) Just Died

( fill in name) just died
I didn't see it coming
I took it in, I cried
Then felt God's comfort- sweet and loving

Wearily, tearily
The memories came
Tenderly, devotedly
I contacted each name

Hi, I knew you'd want to know
( ----) died today
You were special to (him/her) long ago /(or) truly so /or ever so
This... I wanted to convey

The Prophet Came

The prophet came
With a list at hand
He brought a name
To our distant land

A widow who suffered
He sought to see
The blessing was offered
To grant her release

He spoke of her service
And of God's love for her
She'd fulfilled her purpose
Her life was in order

Your husband awaits you,
He was inspired to tell
In a few days she passed
To go beyond the veil
(After 30 years, together... at last)

Brother Larry Burns spoke of his
responsibility to take the prophet around
and of this detour they took....

He Matches His Own With Our Tears

He matches His own
With our tears
The heavens moan
Whene'er pain nears

Through His perfect plan
We have a comforter
And a pathway for prayer
That to Him we can turn

His compassion
Reaches out to us
Through the Companion
And ever, one, Jesus

There is a silver lining
When all we see are clouds
It is for our finding
Where God's love brightly shrouds

Even if you cannot always see that silver lining on your clouds, God can, for He is the very source of the light you seek. He does love you, and He knows your fears. He hears your prayers. He is your Heavenly Father, and surely He matches with His own the tears His children shed.

click on the above title to go to living prophet site and read article by Jeffrey R. Holland
Jeffrey R. Holland,
Within the Clasp of Your Arms
Ensign, May 1983, 36

However Dark the Night or Day

However dark the night or day
The Book of Mormon marks the way.
With light and truth and Jesus Christ
It guides us safely in this life.

Come find love, healing, help, and hope
Inspiration and change to cope.
Resist distractions that allure
Find what's holy, sweet, and pure.

Come be faithful, endure well, be strong;
Find the assurance that you belong.
Successful travelers know to hold fast
To partake of light that Jesus casts.

The mists of darkness subtly descend
But we have safety to the end
The fullest measure of peace and light
Has been preserved for our time

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland:
Book of Mormon — There is no other answer than the one Joseph gave
Published: Sunday, Oct. 4, 2009
LDS Church News
click on above title to read article

The Trays are Filled

The trays are filled
The sheet's supplied
In memory of
The crucified

A prayer is said
For all to hear
The Spirit comes
The Lord is near

Christmas is for Miracles

Christmas is for miracles
If we've faith to believe
What to your heart now pulls?
It is soon our Lord's eve

He awaits at the door
And knows of our needs
Great blessings down pour
Depending on deeds

Let us form this feeling
In someone else's life
There's magic in living
And knowing Jesus Christ

Our legacy
Comes of inventory
As with Christ's light for embracing
We share the greatest story

thoughts from sacrament meeting

The Wallet Warm From Sunshine

The wallet warm from sunshine
Had been given by a friend
Filled with but pictures inside it
And one well used recommend

The car pulled up... his escort
Unto the temple doors
T'was his time to report
And complete his weekly chores

Seventy years he'd been going
Sixty of them with his wife
He being a Lord's servant
What a marvellous life

I Have Met a Woman

I have met a woman
With eyes darkenend with depth
And a warm voice that can open
Hearts which oft do not let

I have seen the tears
Streaming down faces
Of those whom she endears
And shares of what she embraces

She of great reknown
Does a balancing act
For she neglects not her own
The family speaks this fact

Her marriage is quite strong
With the children much like her
In a blink, it won't be long
Till she's a great grandmother...

Let us oft give her a break
That she can keep this pace up
For when rested she awakes
God's love dwelling inside us

The Joy I Suddenly Felt

The joy I suddenly felt
Humbled me to pray
So, before the Lord I knelt
With many words to say

What more could one ask for?
Than to feel the spirit's strong
Blessed with comfort that down pours
I'm reminded I belong

Service- Twice as Nice

Service takes willingness
Love, and sacrifice
With a friend it goes fast
For it's twice as nice

A Girl in a Devasted Land

A girl in a devastated land
Had naught a single thing
Till a soft towel was placed in her hand
What a grand smile it did bring...

For it was new and clean
And smelled so heavenly
She put it to her cheek
Then slept quite evenly

Hours in the Sun

Hours in the sun
Cannot be much fun
So relieve the sweat
With a towel that's wet

Cool someone's brow
That is laboring
And let them know
You're glad to do something

Getting Things Done

It's often said
That I am lazy
For I play dead
To make you crazy

Then... a picture of Christ
Was put on the wall
Where I oft had my eyes
When I would stall

Where before I might play possum
When there was work that was not fun
Now I see a chance to serve and blossom
And I'm the first one getting things done

Create Something

Create something
That was naught before
For the joy it brings
To the person it's for

I Am Showing a Brighter Smile

I am showing a brighter smile
That another can walk that extra mile
She having journeyed well thus far
Just needs a reminder of who really we are

Little Things are the Big Things

Little things are the big things
They make us feel like we're kings
Like a thousand threads of love
Made rich in colors from above

Let There be Peace

Let there be peace
May it begin with me
If I have what you need
I'll wait patiently

I am As God's Instrument

I am as God's instrument
Responding to a call
For when a plea filled prayer is sent
I can be God's answer though I'm small

Our Service

Our service is like
A sunshiny window
Opening t'wards heaven
As our good works then show

Kneading

Kneading muscles
Proves a surprise
For once I'm done
Then you can rise

How you need rest
And someone to talk too
Life's been a test
And hard on you

Is it no wonder
Your back went out
The stress you're under
Leaves little doubt

I understand
And feel for you
Thus, my two hands
Will work hard too

Remember when
We had more time
Strains soften
With help you'll find

Always share
With someone
You know who'll care
To get the knots undone

Love is a Verb

Love is a verb ( make a V with two fingers)
Requiring action (swing arms like running)
Love is doing ( move arms like giving something)
With interaction (clasp hands together and shake them)

Bonnie Liked to Sing

Bonnie liked to sing
As machines gave her breath
A sweet song- my offering
Gave her strength as she faced death

I Am a Child of God
She memorized it fast
While dreaming beyond Earth's sod
Then... finally she passed

At the funeral I sang her song
And her family had flown in too
They asked me, "how did you know?"
For they'd been baptized just weeks new

This family miles apart...
Had been prepared at the same time
Midst a joining of their hearts
For eternal binds that tie

Bonnie's Song
Kevin Holgate
New Era, December 1997, 12

Chance Thomas

There are such diverse ways and means
To break that which God commands
But if to the Lord's Day one leans
There is strength unto new hands

This day renews commitments
To God, family, and work
There faith does influence
Inspiration as a perk

Mosiah 4: 29
And finally, I cannot tell you all the things whereby ye may commit sin; for there are divers ways and means, even so many that I cannot number them.


of Chance Thomas - Composer
from linescratchers.com click on above title to go to the article
You mentioned in the Deseret News that you have made a decision not to violate or compromise your values in the music industry. In what ways are values compromised in the film and video game industry?
A: There was an ancient king who had something to say about there being divers ways and means, so many that he couldn’t number them, right? But to bring the discussion to a couple of concrete points, let’s start with Sundays. I’ve made it a habit not to work on Sundays. This is a day to recharge, a day to connect with my children and my wife, and most importantly, a day to renew my spiritual commitments. We have lots of crunch time in the game industry, and I may have to work 100 hours some weeks. But I will squeeze those hours in between Monday morning and Saturday night.

As another example, I don’t work on games that target an M rating, or films that target an R rating. I certainly respect what other people do, but this is just what I’m comfortable with.

In what other ways does your faith influence the music you write or the work that you do?
A: I believe in approaching the creation of a piece of music spiritually. I like to envision the world where the story or scene is taking place, then plant myself firmly in that scene with my imagination and open up my feelings, to sense the emotions of that moment. As I imagine myself there in that scene, musical ideas tend to flow in a way that is symbiotic to the scene. This results in music that is very visual, for lack of a better word. Meaning that frequently, when people listen to one of my scores, they can almost see the scene taking place in their mind’s eye. So my basic approach to composition comes from a very spiritual place. I also turn to our Creator for direction and inspiration all the time. And I believe that anything good that I’ve ever produced ultimately comes as a result of that inspiration. So yes, my faith definitely plays a role in my work.

Years Ago - Abraham Lincoln

Years ago our great land
Was destitute and in need
Our leader called for fasting
In humility indeed

Hoorah for Abraham Lincoln
Who arose from poverty
To live as one righteous
And lead our poor country

Now... who will lead us
Unto a final recovery
Perhaps... none save Jesus
The greatest of all history

Who will rise up in His name
And restore this nation onto God
With a title of liberty reclaimed
Creating the shock and awe!

Proclamation of a Day of Fasting

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:

A PROCLAMATION.

Whereas a joint Committee of both Houses of Congress has waited on the President of the United States, and requested him to "recommend a day of public humiliation, prayer and fasting, to be observed by the people of the United States with religious solemnities, and the offering of fervent supplications to Almighty God for the safety and welfare of these States, His blessings on their arms, and a speedy restoration of peace:" --

And whereas it is fit and becoming in all people, at all times, to acknowledge and revere the Supreme Government of God; to bow in humble submission to his chastisements; to confess and deplore their sins and transgressions in the full conviction that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; and to pray, with all fervency and contrition, for the pardon of their past offences, and for a blessing upon their present and prospective action:

And whereas, when our own beloved Country, once, by the blessing of God, united, prosperous and happy, is now afflicted with faction and civil war, it is peculiarly fit for us to recognize the hand of God in this terrible visitation, and in sorrowful remembrance of our own faults and crimes as a nation and as individuals, to humble ourselves before Him, and to pray for His mercy, -- to pray that we may be spared further punishment, though most justly deserved; that our arms may be blessed and made effectual for the re-establishment of law, order and peace, throughout the wide extent of our country; and that the inestimable boon of civil and religious liberty, earned under His guidance and blessing, by the labors and sufferings of our fathers, may be restored in all its original excellence: --

Therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do appoint the last Thursday in September next, as a day of humiliation, prayer and fasting for all the people of the nation. And I do earnestly recommend to all the People, and especially to all ministers and teachers of religion of all denominations, and to all heads of families, to observe and keep that day according to their several creeds and modes of worship, in all humility and with all religious solemnity, to the end that the united prayer of the nation may ascend to the Throne of Grace and bring down plentiful blessings upon our Country.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the Seal of the United States to be affixed, this 12th, day of August A.D. 1861, and of the Independence of the United States of America the 86th.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

By the President:

WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.

So Many Family Members Were Not Present and Christmas was Not the Same

So many family members were not present
And Christmas was not the same
But, things became so different
When a knock to our door came

The carolers were greeted
And with joy we joined along
As then to them we treated
So thankful for their songs

They came in and we each acted
The nativity with towels and sheets
Then gone the sweetest advent
We put the kids to sleep

Our carolers soon left
Having filled and warmed our home
Christ's commemoration was kept
And was the greatest ever known

The Missionaries Gathered for Christmas

The missionaries gathered
They of many different lands
To exchange gifts and good food
That together they could band
Yet Christmas felt incomplete
They sought to understand...

They ventured forth caroling
Unto houses they had known
With investigators mingling
The Light of Christ was more shown
For the gift of the self was given
Unto hearts tenderly grown

There were some rich and some poor
But regardless the gift was the same
Each rediscovered what we're here for
Through testimonies in His holy name
For the spirit did downpour
Midst grateful tears that warmly came

thoughts from
A Christmas Complete
By Vander Ferreira de Andrade
New Era, December 1997, 26

Come and See the Christ Child

Come and see the Christ child
Born in the cool mid night
He the morning star mild
Brings to the world great light

Find him in a manger
Beneath the brightest star
You are not a stranger
He knows just who you are

Know he is the promise
Given to save the world
Come with gifts and notice
God's love has been unfurled!

Now the babe lies waiting
With arms stretched out for us
Come with sins forsaken
Unto our Lord Jesus


“I am … the bright and morning star” (Revelation 22:16),

In the Early Morning, I Found Christmas

In the early morning, I found
Peace for quiet devotion
A song inside of me did sound
Awaking me with emotion

Like a child pure and innocent
I arose to find the babe
There I in awe and wonderment
Picked up the child sweetly made

In my hands with arms reaching out
The Savior was welcoming
And with feelings I could not doubt
I knew again He's coming!

In tears of joy my eyes did raise
As anticipation grew
Soon angels will proclaim and praise
The mighty one come anew

Then in humility I knelt
To express my gratitude
For the Light of Christ I felt
And the warmth that did exude

So thankful I am before I slept
I had read God's holy word
And that I had awoke and leapt
With the most lovely music heard...

The Winter was Cold- A Christmas Letter

The winter was cold
The children were hungry
The story retold...
Is sweet and snuggly

We waited things out
They could only get better...
With faith greater than doubt
The day ended with our letter:

Today is the Lord's day
How thankful we are
In His name we pray
And know He is not far

For on our doorstep came
A turkey rather fat
Splendid wooden games
And woollen gloves with hats

To: who ever left all this
We'll reread our thanks each year
Ever filled with promise
To reminisce with tears

Every Christmas we'll play
These games into the night
Then to someone's dark doorway
We'll share of our Lord's light

Much Time Was Needed

Much time was needed
For her gift to be seeded
Brain pathways best trained
Are repetitiously ingrained

And so she had a plan
Music ...would be grand
As it stays inside the head
Even while one is in bed

So she made a tune
To build upon and bloom
As with her child she played
Sweet thoughts were gently laid

First... came good manners
For kindness always matters
Then... she planted dreams
With kisses and moon beams

The beloved child having it all
Grew great, noble, and tall
Exposed only to the best
Now would be the test...

Presented to the world
At the party... dancers swirled
The competition was made great
To present this man with a mate

And he given to choose
Took some time and gave the news
She who was most like his mother
Would give him joy like no other

How her singing did delight
As he continued learning day and night
To become just as he had seen
Many nights in childhood dreams...

He passed and graduated
Finally at last educated
To be the best of his kind
That any patient could ever find

And... he paid others forward
That to their dreams they moved onward
They also coming to know
Belief helps one to grow

The Promise Was in the Beginning

The promise was in the beginning
Jehovah condescending
He the first born and creator
Would travail here on earth, as Savior...

In this world of light and darkness
There is hope that one can harness
Revelation as fire bursts from heaven
Unto the righteous with torches given

There to burn bright and full for our benefit
As shining visions call forth prophets
Lit with prophecy, the faithful then... waited
For that day long anticipated

And in a time in need of rekindling
The source of light and truth came descending
The kingdom of heaven was nigh at hand
The prince of peace was now upon the land

To the virgin, Mary, as was foreseen
Came forth the mighty God, the King of Kings
And with the historical dawning of the Son of God
A shining star in the night burst down and abroad

In fulfillment of promise
He'd come as a babe
Yet, few took to notice
As he was lowly laid

First, the shepherds received the glad tidings
As to their flocks they had been abiding
An angel came and spoke in their midst
With glory sparkling brilliant and fixed

They were told of the sign for which they should seek
In Bethlehem, a babe born where all the beasts feed
Then... heavenly hosts sang with uncontainable joy
There's, too, to proclaim and praise the sweet boy

The shepherds made haste to the city of David
And saw in swaddled cloth the long awaited...
Can we not sing and raise our voice also
For that precious moment foretold long ago

And soon... to us He will come again
To brighten up the world unto all the ends
When... all, at the first, rejoiced and believed
The wicked will burn as the righteous are received

Glory be to the highest
Peace on Earth, goodwill to men
Look to Him who is the brightest
Praise and sing- alleluia, amen

There was a heavenly host, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, Luke 2: 13-14

thoughts from The Promise
By Larry A Hiller
Ensign, December 1990, 20

Upon the Shadows of the Everlasting Hills

Upon the Shadows
Of the everlasting hills
The morning breaks with song
That sweetly ever fills

Music and the Spoken Word
Celebrates another year
How the words soothe the soul
As they reach unto our ears

Cebu Philippines Temple is Coming

A temple is coming
As Saints we prepare
With gratitude showing
We teach our children with care

For the chief cornerstone
Will be Jesus the Christ
Ever we follow Him
Now.... and the rest of our lives

Philippines visit by Elder Cook boosts members
He speaks of the nearly completed Cebu temple
By Kaye Bay

Philippines Area public affairs

Published: Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009
click on title to go to article

Korea- Gather Unto Zion

Gather unto Zion
In the land you possess
Further up God's kingdom
By striving to progress

Get all the training
And education you can
Thus for the sustaining
Of your place among man

Now, become decided
For that day as husband and wife
That you might be united
For eternal life

May you be blessed
For all of your days
Live to be impressed
In inspired ways

Then...know that this conference
Isn't just for you
But your posterity
Awaiting this land too!

Fortify Church in Korea
By Elder F. David Lee
Korea public affairs
Published: Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009
Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve

"be gathered home unto the lands of their possessions," (see 2 Nephi 29:14) and to "seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion" (see Doctrine and Covenants 11:6).

In Bible Days of Long Ago- The Christmas Story Retold

In bible days so long ago
There was made a royal decree
That all the world should pay a tax
Every one in his own city

And Joseph, son of David’s line
With, his espoused wife, Mary
Went to the town of Bethlehem
Though great with the Child soon to be

The inns were all filled by strangers and kin
They arrived with no lodgings to sleep
The sweet babe was born in a lowly manger
With naught but beasts watch to keep

In swaddling clothes the baby was wrapped
The beautiful heavenly son
The shepherds soon came to see for themselves
What tidings the angels had sung

Then... they left in the night to noise all abroad
The prince of peace came- all was well
Proclaiming the babe as the true son of God
Their wondrous story to tell


thoughts from reading the new lds.org site for Christmas
click on title to go directly to the site

The Young Missionary's First Christmas Away

The young missionary's
First Christmas away
Was a little bit teary
But... still a glorious day

What better gift
Than a lone telephone
How the heart lifts
To make that call home

There's so much to say
Questions... and answers
Till each is up to date
To reminisce with laughter

Then with this anticipation spent
Purpose is remade
Unto being God's servant
Where eternal bonds are made

Christmas is A Time of Longing for Home

Christmas is a time
Of longing for home
A warm place to find
You're welcome and known

Ever this feeling
Is born into us
With such love enveloping
That we become generous

Then a joy of giving
Comes straight from the heart
As gratitude for living
Overflows to impart

If we focus our eyes
On the Light of our Lord
We'll come to find Christ
In brightest splendor

For holy light streams down
As we follow the Master
There to announce
His love's what we're after

President Henry B. Eyring
Home for Christmas
Ensign, December 2009, 5

With the very weight of all sins combined

With the very weight
Of all sins combined
Below all He dropped
And knew each heart and mind

There's naught to compare
Thus to comprehend
Yet, we feel His care
As a personal friend

In our very depths
Of disease and sin
There's naught a new debt
That He has left to win

He the finisher
Is our Prince of Peace
Too, our minister
His love does never cease

We have never been
In depths He has known
Nor will we ever be
Worthy of such love shown

Perfect empathy
So everlasting!
Such capacity
To heal us of life's sting!

He ever succors
Bearing all suff'ring
He ever ransoms
As our Lord, King of Kings

May we prove our faith
With hearts grown tender
There to call His name...
O, Divine Redeemer

We adore Thee, still
We've spirits contrite
How Thy works fulfill!
We have Thy holy light!

We with broken hearts
Know Thou understands
When e'er love imparts
We know it's through Thine hands

Cleanse our hearts and hands
Help us servants be
We want to understand
We want to be like Thee

When we see sorrow
We'll lift heads that fall
Thine strength we'll borrow
Till to Thee they will call

When it's us who sin
We will bend so low
And again begin
To repent and Thee know

As Thy disciples
We will preach of Thee
As to Thine temples
We will ever be

There Thy door awaits
Thy beloved stance
There like heaven's gate
Thine holiest entrance

Let that day begin
Come dear Lord and heal
This world full of sin
That we might see and feel



Elder Neal A. Maxwell
O, Divine Redeemer
Ensign, November 1981, 8

With a Storm Advisory

A Weather advisory
The icy storm hit
For a night of misery
To those stuck in it

And here it was
Christmas Eve
With the airports full
As none could leave

Each deep in thought
With little to say
The ticket that they'd bought
Was long since delayed

And... ignoring the crowd
Was a man in a suit
Working with head bowed
A... modern day scrooge

Just then a lone plane
Announced its departure
And many a poor souls came
Seeking a seat to secure

One... in the long line
Was mournfully in doubt
He'd not much more time
Till, to war, he'd be shipped out

All heard of his plight
But, they had theirs too
And this was their flight
What were they to do?

Then... the gate opened
And each ticket was handed
Till the last...in a suit
Gave to the soldier still stranded

Two honorable men
Of sacrifice
To each other softened
What words could suffice...

The man in the suit
Wished the other the best
Gave a proper salute
And left seeking some rest

The plane soon departed
As did others in time
And I left tender hearted
From this moment so kind

Thomas S. Monson
December 6, 2009
First Presidency Christmas Devotional

God's Anger and Wrath

God's anger and wrath
Is evidence of His love
For behavior's the path
To where we'll dwell above...

Disappointments today
Surely help us think
Ought I not to pray...
And spiritually drink

When we know self-defeat
From the wicked things we do
It's the bitterness we eat
That oft humbles us too

Tender mercy sweet
Our Father waits to shower
When to our knees we weep
In our darkest hour

Loving relationships
Endure but through law
As with purity one sips
There's closeness and awe

Shall a parent ignore
What is harming a child?
Nor shall our dear Lord
Would that we be sin wild

Ever free to choose
Still there's consequence
Ever He's our good news
For rock or offense

Dallin H. Oaks
Love and Law
Ensign, Nov 2009, 26–29

What We Love

What we love determines what we seek
And influences what we think and do
To know who you'll soon be... just take a peek
At where your heart is turning you

Is it no wonder that the first command
Is to love God with all of our hearts
For it is then we understand
Divine destiny is in our charts

Dieter F. Uchtdorf
The Love of God
Ensign, Nov 2009, 21–24

I'm Washed and I'm Clean

The Holy Ghost, my friend
Warms my heart near to burst
And the message it sends
Is this day is but the first

I'm washed and I'm clean!
In the purest of ways
Reborn to my being
But, the brightest of days

I feel like sunshine
So close to the Lord
His light fills my mind
And tells me I'm adored

As peace, hope, and joy
This sensation of light
Is security to enjoy
To keep me ever bright

When I feel this warm influence
Wash all over me
What shall I do hence?
But listen and heed



Vicki F. Matsumori
Helping Others Recognize the Whisperings of the Spirit
Ensign, Nov 2009, 10–12

Roomies Forever

When we were very young
We shared the same name
Our lives twined together
Come whate'er came

Roomies forever
Now miles apart
Yet, I carry you always
Close to my heart


Kerry Cozby
my sister

Along with Conversion

Along our path of conversion
We receive knowledge through immersion
Then richly supplied with light and truth to discern
We can apply it to what's secular, ponder, and learn...

The pioneer saints along the Mississippi
Established and chartered a university
To teach of the many learned professions
Including the arts and themes of expression

For they knew education is power
As with God new thoughts then shower
To help us think clearly and act ever well
Midst appreciation for life that springs up to swell

Not out of selfishness, greed, or pride
But of bright blessings as the spirit guides
For with our natures changed through our faith
Our minds are quickened as with a flame

Our secular learning, though, should not come first
But rise of what's commissioned and for which we thirst
There to be a blessing to our Father's children
As we serve through our talents specifically given

Thus, our first priority should be spiritual learning
For that is how we are driven in our secular yearning
May insatiable curiosity become our honored hallmark
As we work harder to recharge what inside us does spark

Fasting and praying, we believe in opportunity
As we are being prepared...yet not of fortuity
But of a plan greater than we can see all at once
Where much is added unto us as our faith we confront

The real test will come then on the Lord's Sabbath
Whether we will serve and rest as He ever asks
That much will be added newly upon our heads
Enough and to spare... spiritually lead

Know Our Lord is truly the Master Teacher over all
And He will extend blessings... even miracles
See, feel, and write that the Holy Ghost might assist
While expressing gratitude for strength... and persist

Real-Life Education
President Henry B. Eyring
NewEra, April 2009, 2

In Sickness and Health

In sickness and health
As a young couple we wed
Our love was our wealth
And with joy we looked ahead...

Now in our aged years
There's no tears or regret
For love conquers fears
Though it's me... she forgets

What is left of her is as a child
Not yet with ability to think
Sweet, innocent, and mild
Yet... still able to spiritually drink

And because of this joy she still feels
She loves to hold hands and embrace
And it's my heart she steals
Whene'er I look upon her sweet face

Her voice must combine with angels
As she sings songs that somehow... stay
And on this last slip of life she dangles
To ever brighten up my day

And... I remember the past..
What drew me to her... what did I first love?
But that same spiritual cast
Glowing full of faith in Father above

alzheimers

THE CHARTER FOR COMPASSION

The charter for compassion
Places all mankind on common ground
That amidst our varied paths of passion
A concern for others is always found

Angels in our Midst

The angels in our midst
Are of many shapes and sizes
And as they selflessly lift
It's the love felt that one prizes

Compassion unto service
Is our opportunity
To know a higher purpose
As with the angels we will be

click on the title to go to a sweet
site with wonderful angel quotes

The Lord Measures a Family's Success

The Lord measures a family's success
By the quality of its relationships
As it's the principles of faith that impress
Unto the fulfillment of stewardships

Love, compassion, and service
Midst repentance and forgiveness
Are but fruits of the family's purpose
Founded on faith, prayers, and wholesomeness

Ideally, the father presides
In love and righteousness
There to be an example and guide
Of what is noble inside us

Ideally, the mother nurtures
And puts what's pure into the home
That as children look to their futures
Unto wickedness they'll not roam

Let us go about and accumulate
What is pleasing unto the Lord
Not as concerned with an heritage of estate
But what to heaven- family virtue does afford

Families
"The proclamation teaches that 'successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities.' In other words, the Lord measures the success of a family by the quality of its relationships. In a home where faith, love, and forgiveness are dominant, members find joy and satisfaction in being together. Ideally the father presides in love and righteousness, provides the necessities of life, and protects the family while the mother is primarily responsible for the nurturing of the children. In contrast, the world often measures family success by the accumulation of worldly things and the size of the estate that is passed on to the children."

~ Merrill J. Bateman, "Eternal Family," Ensign, 115