Dear Brethren,
I have to keep it short today, but I am so grateful for all of you, and especially for our loving Heavenly Father and for our Lord Jesus Christ. Their continual love and support is all that can keeps me going sometimes, and I know that they are playing the same roles in your lives. I hope all of you have opened your eyes to their continual blessings in your individual lives--even just a little bit. I cannot say I even nearly comprehend all of the blessings that they have given me, but I am grateful for all of those blessings that I do see. This is such a wonderful plan that we are living, and it truly was designed by our loving Father who is in Heaven. I hope all of you are keeping an eye out for the brothers and sisters that you promised you would find, and share the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ with. Look for them.
I also hope you have all been able to obtain your copies of the Doctrine and Covenants and Church History set. Watch the John Tanner Movie, and also the Joseph Smith: Prophet of the Restoration movie. Watch them as a family--all immediate, extended, and friend families. They will life your testimony if you hearken unto the Spirit of God as He testifies of the truthfulness of those events. It is powerful. Open up your hearts, and listen.
My mind has been brought to the reflection of a topic today, and I received some interesting insight in my studies today. All of us have been given gifts by our Heavenly Father, and many of those are referred to as "Gifts of the Spirit". For most of us (including myself), it is often hard to recognize those gifts that we already possess. As well, it is hard for us to know how to go about receiving more of those spiritual gifts. We are taught by church leaders that we are to seek after these spiritual gifts. We are also taught that we are to use those gifts for the welfare of God's children. We are to use them in service, and to help others receive the Gospel of Jesus Christ. May I suggest that you strive to recognize your gifts. Pray for recognition, review or obtain your patriarchal blessings, and read from the scriptures. Become familiar with them. Moroni 10 is one place where some of them can be found listed. I know Gospel Principles has a chapter on Spiritual Gifts. As well, there are other places of scripture to look to. I intend to look into these things myself.
As I was reading in Doctrine and Covenants today, near the beginning, I came across passages of revelation given through the Prophet Joseph Smith, to Oliver Cowdery. Now, I pray that the Spirit will help me that I will not err in any of the things I do say today. My understanding of it was that Oliver Cowdery desired to translate parts of the Book of Mormon from the gold plates as well. It must not have been an unrighteous desire, because the Lord said he could do it. However, when he went to translate, he found himself not very successful. The Lord said it was because he lacked patience, and also because he wasn't being as sensative to the spirit as he needed to be. Oliver had been given the gift of translation, but because he was struggling so badly, the Lord told him that Joseph needed to translate the rest of the record and that in the future he could translate other records. Now, I do not know what happened, but I learned some interesting things there. We may have gifts that we are not using because we are not being patient, and listing to the whisperings of the Holy Ghost. Now, like I said, I hope I was not wrong in my comprehension of what I read--I was very tired this morning--but even so, I believe the principle stands true that we need to tune ourselves with the Spirit of the Lord, and exercise patience to truly be able to use our gifts.
We should seek after these gifts, and identify them. Truly these gifts exist, and we should not doubt--but go forward with faith. I used to think of the gift of prophecy, or of dicernment, and think, "wow, it would be so cool to have those", but I doubted I could ever obtain such gifts. I was wrong. I have truly seen the Spirit use me to prophecy, and those prophecies came true. I have prophesied concerning my investigators who are under our stewardship (being mine and Elder Pauni's--or other companions at other times). We have been led to discern many things. We can have these gifts if it is the Lord's will, and use them within our stewardship. Now, I can obviously not just go and start prophesying for the world at this moment. That is President Monson's stewardship, but we should not fear learning how to use our gifts for our own stewardship. Obviously we need to use them in harmony with the Spirit so that we are doing the Lord's will, but the Lord will allow us to use them.
Anyway, I am just rambling, hoping I am just getting the points across I was aiming for. I love you all! Have a great week!
Love, Elder Christopher Petersen
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Monday, January 10, 2011
The Spirit Testifies of the Truthfulness of the Book of Mormon . . .
Dear Brethren,
I had the privellege this last week of visiting the Mormon Trail Center in Omaha Nebraska, again. It is a visitor center that is sort of like a museum showing things about the pioneers that crossed the plains and came to Utah. It is right next to a pioneer cemetary for those that died at Winter Quarters--which is actually positioned right next to the Winter Quarters Temple that is now there. There is a great deal of historic information that is given there, but much more important is the Holy Spirit that is there. Among the many things at the Trail Center, is the Joseph Smith: Prophet of the Restoration movie. Just recently the movie got released on DVD in the Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Box Set. I would encourage any and all of you to get this box set, because there are many powerful movies on there--including the Stone Cutter, and a movie about Jacob Tanner, which is absolutely amazing! I would encourage you to watch all of those, and more.
Anyway, we had three investigators, a less-active member, and an active member all at the Trail Center with us. It was a great experience. The Spirit was strong, and powerful testimony was born. I am especially grateful for the Trail Center Sisters, and the Spirit that they carry. I've been there a few times, and I am astonished by some of the profound things they say--especially this time. Powerful witness came of the truthfulness of this Gospel, and of Joseph Smith being a Chosen Prophet of God. The divinity of the Book of Mormon was witnessed to all of us there by the power of the Holy Ghost (for most of us a reconfirming witness). Our investigators all felt it, and admitted to it. One was brought to tears several times. You could see the Spirit in the countenances of all three of them. A profound calm, yet a powerful surge of the Spirit was working within them.
I cannot adequately describe our experience, but I can relate it with my testimony.
Jesus is the Christ. Who can look at this world, and doubt its creator--the Great Jehovah, and Son of the Living God? He lives today, and guides and directs His Chosen Prophet, Thomas S. Monson. He called Joseph Smith to restore His church to the earth. A man cannot truly read the Book of Mormon with sincerity and real intent, without knowing it is from God. Elder Holland's father spoke of the Book of Mormon, and though I will slaughter the quote, he did say something along the lines of: No evil man could write a book like this--and no good man would do it, unless it were true, and he were commanded of God to do so. The Book of Mormon was written by Prophets of God in the Ancient Americas, and it was translated by the gift and power of God, through the Prophet Joseph Smith. Who can doubt? If we read it sincerely, and ask God, willing to act on His answer, He will tell us that this is true. My whole mission, I have never run across somebody who has asked, and received a no. Not one. There has only been one person that I have met who has ever claimed so, and she admitted to me later on that she read piecies of it already not believing it before she read it, and she did not ask God wanting to know. Everyone who has ever asked, either did not receive an answer because they lacked sincerity, and real intent (they did not do their part), or they received the answer that the Book of Mormon is true. It is without fail. No man has ever been told no. Our Heavenly Father loves us, and He has promised us that if we lack wisdom and we ask Him, He shall give unto us. What else could you expect from a Father? He is the Father of our spirits, and He wants us to be happy. That is why He gave His only-begotten Son to be offered as a sacrifice for sin. Christ's Atonement makes it possible for all of us to lead happy lives, no matter what the Adversary will do to us. I love you all! Talk to you before you know it!
Love, your brother, Elder Christopher Petersen
I had the privellege this last week of visiting the Mormon Trail Center in Omaha Nebraska, again. It is a visitor center that is sort of like a museum showing things about the pioneers that crossed the plains and came to Utah. It is right next to a pioneer cemetary for those that died at Winter Quarters--which is actually positioned right next to the Winter Quarters Temple that is now there. There is a great deal of historic information that is given there, but much more important is the Holy Spirit that is there. Among the many things at the Trail Center, is the Joseph Smith: Prophet of the Restoration movie. Just recently the movie got released on DVD in the Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Box Set. I would encourage any and all of you to get this box set, because there are many powerful movies on there--including the Stone Cutter, and a movie about Jacob Tanner, which is absolutely amazing! I would encourage you to watch all of those, and more.
Anyway, we had three investigators, a less-active member, and an active member all at the Trail Center with us. It was a great experience. The Spirit was strong, and powerful testimony was born. I am especially grateful for the Trail Center Sisters, and the Spirit that they carry. I've been there a few times, and I am astonished by some of the profound things they say--especially this time. Powerful witness came of the truthfulness of this Gospel, and of Joseph Smith being a Chosen Prophet of God. The divinity of the Book of Mormon was witnessed to all of us there by the power of the Holy Ghost (for most of us a reconfirming witness). Our investigators all felt it, and admitted to it. One was brought to tears several times. You could see the Spirit in the countenances of all three of them. A profound calm, yet a powerful surge of the Spirit was working within them.
I cannot adequately describe our experience, but I can relate it with my testimony.
Jesus is the Christ. Who can look at this world, and doubt its creator--the Great Jehovah, and Son of the Living God? He lives today, and guides and directs His Chosen Prophet, Thomas S. Monson. He called Joseph Smith to restore His church to the earth. A man cannot truly read the Book of Mormon with sincerity and real intent, without knowing it is from God. Elder Holland's father spoke of the Book of Mormon, and though I will slaughter the quote, he did say something along the lines of: No evil man could write a book like this--and no good man would do it, unless it were true, and he were commanded of God to do so. The Book of Mormon was written by Prophets of God in the Ancient Americas, and it was translated by the gift and power of God, through the Prophet Joseph Smith. Who can doubt? If we read it sincerely, and ask God, willing to act on His answer, He will tell us that this is true. My whole mission, I have never run across somebody who has asked, and received a no. Not one. There has only been one person that I have met who has ever claimed so, and she admitted to me later on that she read piecies of it already not believing it before she read it, and she did not ask God wanting to know. Everyone who has ever asked, either did not receive an answer because they lacked sincerity, and real intent (they did not do their part), or they received the answer that the Book of Mormon is true. It is without fail. No man has ever been told no. Our Heavenly Father loves us, and He has promised us that if we lack wisdom and we ask Him, He shall give unto us. What else could you expect from a Father? He is the Father of our spirits, and He wants us to be happy. That is why He gave His only-begotten Son to be offered as a sacrifice for sin. Christ's Atonement makes it possible for all of us to lead happy lives, no matter what the Adversary will do to us. I love you all! Talk to you before you know it!
Love, your brother, Elder Christopher Petersen
The Work of God is Going Forth with Powe and Great Glory . . .
Written 01/03/11
"Our missionaries are going forth to different nations...The standard of truth has been erected; no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing; persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may defame, but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in every ear till the purposes of God shall be accomplished and the Great Jehovah shall say the work is done." --The Standard of Truth
My Dear Brethren,
Are these things not coming to pass in these great and glories days? Truly the work of God is going forth with power and great glory, and these last days are truly here with the Second Coming of our Savior nigh at hand. The Gospel is being taught all over the world, and truly these prophetic words, given by, I believe, the Prophet Joseph Smith, are being fulfilled! What are great day! We are preparing the world for the Second Coming of the Messiah, and helping our brothers and sisters to receive the Gospel of Jesus the Christ. Have we not great reason to rejoice in each other, and in the Lord?
At this time, I hope all of you will reflect on your personal testimonies, and remember how we came to know for ourselves the things that we know. They are true, and the Holy Ghost has testified it unto you. Some days I marvel at how quickly I forget the multiple witnesses that I have received, even for a moment. It is so easy to get caught in worldly cares, and to give in to the desires of the flesh. After all, for the many years our spirits must have existed to have progressed to the point of no progression until we received these bodies, controlling this body we each have is a fairly new experience. Still, the scriptures tell us what we must become. Mosiah 3:19 says: "For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father."
Doesn't that seem like a fairly difficult task at times? It may seem very daunting, and it would be impossible if it were not for the atonement of the Savior Jesus Christ. Too often, we as members of the church know that we can be forgiven through the atonement of Christ, but we forget that it is also through the atonement that we overcome our weaknesses. Ether 12:27 says, "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for4 all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them."
The scriptures teach us that it is through the grace of Christ our Lord that we are saved, after all we can do (2 Nephi 25:23). In the Bible Dictionary it says the following about Grace: The main idea of the word is divine means of help or strength, given through the bounteous mercy and love of Jesus Christ. (I would encourage you to read the the entirety of what the Bible Dictionary says under Grace, but skipping down, it says:) It is...through the grace of the Lord that individuals, through faith in the atonement of Jesus Christ and repentance of their sins, receive strength and assistance to do good works that they otherwise would not be able to maintain if left to their own means."
I have spent much time on this blog, so I hope that it benefits all of you. We can overcome the things that we sometimes hopelessly start to believe we cannot overcome. It hurts inside to realize how inadequate we are sometimes, and how imperfect before God. Sometimes this leads us to turn away from God, and we must not. It is only by turning to God that we will be able to be forgiven, and overcome our weaknesses. We must humble ourselves before Him, and it is important that we humble ourselves. In Alma 32:16 it says: "Therefore, blessed are they who humble themselves without being compelled to be humble; or rather, in other words, blessed is he that believeth in the word of God, and is baptized without stubbornness of heart, yea, without being brought to know the word, or even compelled to know, before their will believe." Now, it goes on to talk about the difference between knowing something, and believing--or having faith--in something. One is a sure knowledge, that if we sinned against it, great would be our condemnation--and the other is "...not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true." (Alma 32:21)
I love the scriptures my friends! They are great! The Prophets have such wonderful words to help us understand the truths and mysteries of God. The light is revealed to us, and we have a great duty to reveal that light to others, and to help others know these things. There is such joy in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Ought we not to live it? Faith in Jesus Christ, Repentance, Baptism (Sacrament as well), The Gift of the Holy Ghost, Endure to the End! It is simple, but it gets us through the complications of life.
2 Nephi 2:6-8 says: "Wherefore, redemption cometh in and through the Holy Messiah; for he is full of grace and truth. Behold, he offereth himself a sacrifice for sin, to answer the ends of the law, unto all those who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit; and unto none else can the ends of the law be answered. Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presense of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah, who layeth down his life according to the flesh, and taketh it again by the power of the Spirit, that he may bring to pass the resurrection of the dead, being the first that should rise."
My brethren, I love you, and I love this work. Let's do it together, and thrust in our sickles with all our might!
Love, your brother and friend,
Elder Christopher D. Petersen
P.S. I hope I typed all of the scriptures correctly. If I did not, look up the scriptures, and search them yourselves. Or just overlook my weakness.
"Our missionaries are going forth to different nations...The standard of truth has been erected; no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing; persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may defame, but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in every ear till the purposes of God shall be accomplished and the Great Jehovah shall say the work is done." --The Standard of Truth
My Dear Brethren,
Are these things not coming to pass in these great and glories days? Truly the work of God is going forth with power and great glory, and these last days are truly here with the Second Coming of our Savior nigh at hand. The Gospel is being taught all over the world, and truly these prophetic words, given by, I believe, the Prophet Joseph Smith, are being fulfilled! What are great day! We are preparing the world for the Second Coming of the Messiah, and helping our brothers and sisters to receive the Gospel of Jesus the Christ. Have we not great reason to rejoice in each other, and in the Lord?
At this time, I hope all of you will reflect on your personal testimonies, and remember how we came to know for ourselves the things that we know. They are true, and the Holy Ghost has testified it unto you. Some days I marvel at how quickly I forget the multiple witnesses that I have received, even for a moment. It is so easy to get caught in worldly cares, and to give in to the desires of the flesh. After all, for the many years our spirits must have existed to have progressed to the point of no progression until we received these bodies, controlling this body we each have is a fairly new experience. Still, the scriptures tell us what we must become. Mosiah 3:19 says: "For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father."
Doesn't that seem like a fairly difficult task at times? It may seem very daunting, and it would be impossible if it were not for the atonement of the Savior Jesus Christ. Too often, we as members of the church know that we can be forgiven through the atonement of Christ, but we forget that it is also through the atonement that we overcome our weaknesses. Ether 12:27 says, "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for4 all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them."
The scriptures teach us that it is through the grace of Christ our Lord that we are saved, after all we can do (2 Nephi 25:23). In the Bible Dictionary it says the following about Grace: The main idea of the word is divine means of help or strength, given through the bounteous mercy and love of Jesus Christ. (I would encourage you to read the the entirety of what the Bible Dictionary says under Grace, but skipping down, it says:) It is...through the grace of the Lord that individuals, through faith in the atonement of Jesus Christ and repentance of their sins, receive strength and assistance to do good works that they otherwise would not be able to maintain if left to their own means."
I have spent much time on this blog, so I hope that it benefits all of you. We can overcome the things that we sometimes hopelessly start to believe we cannot overcome. It hurts inside to realize how inadequate we are sometimes, and how imperfect before God. Sometimes this leads us to turn away from God, and we must not. It is only by turning to God that we will be able to be forgiven, and overcome our weaknesses. We must humble ourselves before Him, and it is important that we humble ourselves. In Alma 32:16 it says: "Therefore, blessed are they who humble themselves without being compelled to be humble; or rather, in other words, blessed is he that believeth in the word of God, and is baptized without stubbornness of heart, yea, without being brought to know the word, or even compelled to know, before their will believe." Now, it goes on to talk about the difference between knowing something, and believing--or having faith--in something. One is a sure knowledge, that if we sinned against it, great would be our condemnation--and the other is "...not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true." (Alma 32:21)
I love the scriptures my friends! They are great! The Prophets have such wonderful words to help us understand the truths and mysteries of God. The light is revealed to us, and we have a great duty to reveal that light to others, and to help others know these things. There is such joy in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Ought we not to live it? Faith in Jesus Christ, Repentance, Baptism (Sacrament as well), The Gift of the Holy Ghost, Endure to the End! It is simple, but it gets us through the complications of life.
2 Nephi 2:6-8 says: "Wherefore, redemption cometh in and through the Holy Messiah; for he is full of grace and truth. Behold, he offereth himself a sacrifice for sin, to answer the ends of the law, unto all those who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit; and unto none else can the ends of the law be answered. Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presense of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah, who layeth down his life according to the flesh, and taketh it again by the power of the Spirit, that he may bring to pass the resurrection of the dead, being the first that should rise."
My brethren, I love you, and I love this work. Let's do it together, and thrust in our sickles with all our might!
Love, your brother and friend,
Elder Christopher D. Petersen
P.S. I hope I typed all of the scriptures correctly. If I did not, look up the scriptures, and search them yourselves. Or just overlook my weakness.
The Power of the Atonement
Written Dec. 27, 2010
My dear brothers and sisters,
"We are not merely mortal beings having a spiritual experience, but spiritual beings having a mortal experience." (Don't remember who the quote is by, and I probably slaughtered it, but think about it)
I hope you all had a Merry Christmas! I know I had a good one out here on the mission field. Wonderful things are going on, as always, and I have had many growing experiences in the last week. I hope you all remember that you are in my prayers, and that I love you all so much. I hope you also took the time to celebrate Christ's birth, and remember His atoning sacrifice for us. The Atonement is real, and very active in our lives if we will but let it. Through the Atonement, we can find relief from guilt, and be washed clean from sin in the blood of our Savior Jesus Christ. We can also find additional strength that will allow us to do works that we otherwise could not maintain if left to our own ability (look up Grace in the Bible Dictionary). Christ promised us He would make our burdens lighter if we will come unto Him, and strive to obey His commandments. In Matthew 11:28-30, he said: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and our heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light". A yoke is what goes on oxen when they pull a wagon, or other loads. It is interesting, because in a study, they took two oxen that could each pull 1,000 lbs. by themselves, and together they could pull 3,000 lbs. Incredible huh? So how do you think it would be if you and Christ were yoked together to face your challenges?
2 Nephi 31:19-20 says: "And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path (which is entered by baptism--insert by me), I would ask if all is done? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save. Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus sait the Father: Ye shall have eternal life". How are we enduring to the end? Are we trying to do it ourselves, or do we have the companionship of the Holy Ghost? Are we asking Heavenly Father for His, and our Savior's help? If not, we ought to be. Remember that the natural man is an enemy to God, and that we need to humble ourselves and ask for God's help. All of us are inadequate if we do not have God's help. Nothing is impossible with God.
Now one thing you may have noticed above, is the word strait in bold above. Pay attention to the fact that the word is not spelled straight, but strait. These words have two different meanings. The meaning in this scripture (being the meaning of strait), is not saying that the narrow path has no turns, or twists. A strait is kind of like a passage way that connects two points of destination. There is only one strait and narrow path that leads to God, but that does not mean it will be easy. The path does have twists, turns, and obstacles. Such is life, but all things that we suffer is common to man. God is faithful, and we learn from the scriptures that he will not suffer us to be tempted above that which we are able. However, that is on condition, that we plead for His help. Sometimes it is required of us to ask Him for things, even though He does know all that we need. This teaches us how to be humble, and to rely on our Loving Heavenly Father--and our brother, Jesus Christ.
Concerning the quote above, it obviously makes a point. We are all children of God who lived with Him before this life. In the premortal life, we were all a family together. Before we came to this earth, we knew it would be difficult. However, we loved God's wonderful plan for us. Before this life, we had reached our full potential as individuals without a body. We could no longer progress unless we would come to earth, gain a body, and learn from our experiences. We would prove ourselves before God that we are willing to live His Gospel. This would allow us to return to live with Him, now having a body of our own, having truly experienced the difference between good and evil for ourselves, thus allowing us to become like our Father. Because of Jesus Christ, we would be washed clean, and one day live in the presence of God, if we repent.
This is an amazing plan, but there is one thing I'm sure we were all afraid of. We are all family, and we knew it. We loved all of our brothers and sisters, and we knew that not every one of us could be born into the gospel. That would be impossible. He loves us all, and we all loved each other. Therefore, who can doubt that we promised one another that we would find each other, and deliver the gospel to each other. It seems to me that many of those that I have found, it's almost like I have known them before. They are familiar to me. I do not doubt these were my brothers and sisters that I promised I would find. Among the many, I know it of my best friend. I know that I promised him before.
Who did you promise you would find them? How will you recognize them? Did you miss them? We have a duty far beyond that which we know, to spread the gospel, and to help all of our brothers and sisters know how to repent, and come unto Christ. He is the only way. The Gospel will be preached to all of them, but nobody can deny that there are times in one's life that they will feel more receptive than at other times. Is it not our duty to present to them the gospel always, so that we can teach it to them while they are the most receptive? Who knows the pain they will feel in the last day, when somebody they knew comes up to them and asks, "Brother, why did you not share you church with me?"
I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is God's true and living church. There is no doubt in my mind. It is the only church that is complete, and there is none other. God loves all of His children. That is why He set up a missionary program. He wants us to find those that we promised we would deliver the gospel to. How merciful is He for the missionary program, both in this life, and in the life to come?! It is amazing! It is the only church where God is portrayed like that. In none other will He go to such great lengths to save His children. That is because no where else do they know God as we know Him, as a loving Father who is much like ourselves, but perfect.
I bear my testimony that Jesus is the Christ--the Son of the Living God. He lives today, and directs His church. He has called a living Prophet, Thomas S. Monson, to lead His children here on earth. Our Heavenly Father has also provided the means of prayer for us to have a personal relationship with Him. Let's all make that a close relationship. I also know that He and His Son, Jesus Christ, called Joseph Smith to be a Prophet, and to Restore Christ's Church, as an instrument in His hand. How wonderul it is to have this knowledge! Let us not take it for granted. And let us spread this knowledge with all of our hearts, might, minds, and strength. Love you all! Have a Happy New Year!
Love, Elder
My dear brothers and sisters,
"We are not merely mortal beings having a spiritual experience, but spiritual beings having a mortal experience." (Don't remember who the quote is by, and I probably slaughtered it, but think about it)
I hope you all had a Merry Christmas! I know I had a good one out here on the mission field. Wonderful things are going on, as always, and I have had many growing experiences in the last week. I hope you all remember that you are in my prayers, and that I love you all so much. I hope you also took the time to celebrate Christ's birth, and remember His atoning sacrifice for us. The Atonement is real, and very active in our lives if we will but let it. Through the Atonement, we can find relief from guilt, and be washed clean from sin in the blood of our Savior Jesus Christ. We can also find additional strength that will allow us to do works that we otherwise could not maintain if left to our own ability (look up Grace in the Bible Dictionary). Christ promised us He would make our burdens lighter if we will come unto Him, and strive to obey His commandments. In Matthew 11:28-30, he said: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and our heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light". A yoke is what goes on oxen when they pull a wagon, or other loads. It is interesting, because in a study, they took two oxen that could each pull 1,000 lbs. by themselves, and together they could pull 3,000 lbs. Incredible huh? So how do you think it would be if you and Christ were yoked together to face your challenges?
2 Nephi 31:19-20 says: "And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path (which is entered by baptism--insert by me), I would ask if all is done? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save. Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus sait the Father: Ye shall have eternal life". How are we enduring to the end? Are we trying to do it ourselves, or do we have the companionship of the Holy Ghost? Are we asking Heavenly Father for His, and our Savior's help? If not, we ought to be. Remember that the natural man is an enemy to God, and that we need to humble ourselves and ask for God's help. All of us are inadequate if we do not have God's help. Nothing is impossible with God.
Now one thing you may have noticed above, is the word strait in bold above. Pay attention to the fact that the word is not spelled straight, but strait. These words have two different meanings. The meaning in this scripture (being the meaning of strait), is not saying that the narrow path has no turns, or twists. A strait is kind of like a passage way that connects two points of destination. There is only one strait and narrow path that leads to God, but that does not mean it will be easy. The path does have twists, turns, and obstacles. Such is life, but all things that we suffer is common to man. God is faithful, and we learn from the scriptures that he will not suffer us to be tempted above that which we are able. However, that is on condition, that we plead for His help. Sometimes it is required of us to ask Him for things, even though He does know all that we need. This teaches us how to be humble, and to rely on our Loving Heavenly Father--and our brother, Jesus Christ.
Concerning the quote above, it obviously makes a point. We are all children of God who lived with Him before this life. In the premortal life, we were all a family together. Before we came to this earth, we knew it would be difficult. However, we loved God's wonderful plan for us. Before this life, we had reached our full potential as individuals without a body. We could no longer progress unless we would come to earth, gain a body, and learn from our experiences. We would prove ourselves before God that we are willing to live His Gospel. This would allow us to return to live with Him, now having a body of our own, having truly experienced the difference between good and evil for ourselves, thus allowing us to become like our Father. Because of Jesus Christ, we would be washed clean, and one day live in the presence of God, if we repent.
This is an amazing plan, but there is one thing I'm sure we were all afraid of. We are all family, and we knew it. We loved all of our brothers and sisters, and we knew that not every one of us could be born into the gospel. That would be impossible. He loves us all, and we all loved each other. Therefore, who can doubt that we promised one another that we would find each other, and deliver the gospel to each other. It seems to me that many of those that I have found, it's almost like I have known them before. They are familiar to me. I do not doubt these were my brothers and sisters that I promised I would find. Among the many, I know it of my best friend. I know that I promised him before.
Who did you promise you would find them? How will you recognize them? Did you miss them? We have a duty far beyond that which we know, to spread the gospel, and to help all of our brothers and sisters know how to repent, and come unto Christ. He is the only way. The Gospel will be preached to all of them, but nobody can deny that there are times in one's life that they will feel more receptive than at other times. Is it not our duty to present to them the gospel always, so that we can teach it to them while they are the most receptive? Who knows the pain they will feel in the last day, when somebody they knew comes up to them and asks, "Brother, why did you not share you church with me?"
I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is God's true and living church. There is no doubt in my mind. It is the only church that is complete, and there is none other. God loves all of His children. That is why He set up a missionary program. He wants us to find those that we promised we would deliver the gospel to. How merciful is He for the missionary program, both in this life, and in the life to come?! It is amazing! It is the only church where God is portrayed like that. In none other will He go to such great lengths to save His children. That is because no where else do they know God as we know Him, as a loving Father who is much like ourselves, but perfect.
I bear my testimony that Jesus is the Christ--the Son of the Living God. He lives today, and directs His church. He has called a living Prophet, Thomas S. Monson, to lead His children here on earth. Our Heavenly Father has also provided the means of prayer for us to have a personal relationship with Him. Let's all make that a close relationship. I also know that He and His Son, Jesus Christ, called Joseph Smith to be a Prophet, and to Restore Christ's Church, as an instrument in His hand. How wonderul it is to have this knowledge! Let us not take it for granted. And let us spread this knowledge with all of our hearts, might, minds, and strength. Love you all! Have a Happy New Year!
Love, Elder
Monday, December 20, 2010
Merry Christmas!
Dear Brethren,
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! This week should be awesome! I hope you are all remembering the true meaning of Christmas this week! Although through Latter-Day Revelation, we know that Christ's birth was actually April 6th, December 25th is the time that the Christian World takes to remember Christ and His birth. So, I hope you all remember that (and I figure you would), as you are celebrating this Christmas Season with your families and loved ones.
The work is going fantastic! Not one soul that is set for baptism out here is not still moving toward baptism. As always, things get in the way, but the key is overcoming those problems. Satan is fighting against the work, as always, but every one of the souls that God is entrusting us with, are doing well, and are on course. Keep missionary work in your prayers, please. We could all use all the prayers we can get. This is a great time of year for Charity to be in our hearts, and I hope we are all taking advantage of that spirit to share the gospel with those around us. More important than anything is the eternal life of the people around us. Let's be examples, and bring people to Christ, okay? We call ourselves the Sons of Mosiah for a reason! We're great missionaries!
Anyway, my message will be slightly short today, but know that I love you all so much! Many of you probably have no idea how profound of an impact you have had on my life. I think of you often, and I can't wait until we are all assembled back together again some day in the near future. However, until then, let's do things to give glory to our God, and make each other proud! I hope we have many stories to share with each other when we are all together again. I hope we even bring more people with us into the fold of Christ, and even into our friendship. Love you all, and have a Merry Christmas!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! This week should be awesome! I hope you are all remembering the true meaning of Christmas this week! Although through Latter-Day Revelation, we know that Christ's birth was actually April 6th, December 25th is the time that the Christian World takes to remember Christ and His birth. So, I hope you all remember that (and I figure you would), as you are celebrating this Christmas Season with your families and loved ones.
The work is going fantastic! Not one soul that is set for baptism out here is not still moving toward baptism. As always, things get in the way, but the key is overcoming those problems. Satan is fighting against the work, as always, but every one of the souls that God is entrusting us with, are doing well, and are on course. Keep missionary work in your prayers, please. We could all use all the prayers we can get. This is a great time of year for Charity to be in our hearts, and I hope we are all taking advantage of that spirit to share the gospel with those around us. More important than anything is the eternal life of the people around us. Let's be examples, and bring people to Christ, okay? We call ourselves the Sons of Mosiah for a reason! We're great missionaries!
Anyway, my message will be slightly short today, but know that I love you all so much! Many of you probably have no idea how profound of an impact you have had on my life. I think of you often, and I can't wait until we are all assembled back together again some day in the near future. However, until then, let's do things to give glory to our God, and make each other proud! I hope we have many stories to share with each other when we are all together again. I hope we even bring more people with us into the fold of Christ, and even into our friendship. Love you all, and have a Merry Christmas!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Almost the one year mark and the work is moving forward . . .
Dear Brethren,
Another week gone by...so quickly! It just happens I guess. My year mark is coming up quickly, and I'm freaking out that it's almost here. I totally love the mission, and am so glad I've been able to serve out here. I don't know what I'm going to do with myself when I have to come home, in some ways. In others, I know exactly what I'm going to do when I get home. However, I'm going to refrain from talking about those things I'm going to do when I get home, because they will make me "trunky" (there is your missionary word for the week. It basically means homesick, or longing for something you can only have at home--for example, wanting to watch movies). That would not be good for me to get trunky, thus I refrain. However, I am looking forward to seeing all of you again. I know Elder Van Steeter is as well (for those of you who know him), because he and I have kept in contact since he entered the mission field. I am glad to share the work with my good friend, and definitely can't await many of your arrivals to the mission field. What would be even greater, is for one or two of you to find your way out to Nebraska with me. I would be more than glad to train you...unless you are a sister of course, and then I would just be glad to serve around you.
Anyway, reporting the good news, there are now ten people set for baptism in Columbus. The area is doing really well, and we just received news this last week that they will be making my area into two areas when transfers happen this week. There will be Columbus English, and Columbus Spanish instead of just one "Zebra Area" (which is a term for an english-speaking missionary serving with a spanish-speaking missionary, which I am currently doing). Our theory is that Elder Noonchester and I are getting split up, and will both be given a new companion, but we don't know yet. We find our transfer information tomorrow. Fun.
So how are you all doing? Write me and let me know. If you have any inspirational stories for me, I can always use those. They really do pump me up for the work. I am sorry I have failed to write all of you, but my hand kills after writing three letters, so I usually respond to letters I have currently received. Deb and Jake, I know I totally owe you a letter from forever ago! I think I also owe James and Steff, and Aunt Wendy as well...and Tim...and others. I will attempt to repent swiftly, but I can only do so much. Do know that I love you all, and intend to keep loving you all when I return. Don't hate me if you don't here from me much.
Well, I love you all, and hope I have more of a message to write next week. Keep doing missionary work all of you, and help the missionaries out in your area. The Lord needs you to do the work too, and I know He loves you all so much that He wants to bless you until you feel you can't be blessed anymore. These blessings will come when you do missionary work. "Keep the faith, keep the funk!" That would be a shout out to Sister Harwood, one of the three coolest sisters on the planet earth! Love you all! Talk to you next week!
Love, Elder Christopher D. Petersen
Another week gone by...so quickly! It just happens I guess. My year mark is coming up quickly, and I'm freaking out that it's almost here. I totally love the mission, and am so glad I've been able to serve out here. I don't know what I'm going to do with myself when I have to come home, in some ways. In others, I know exactly what I'm going to do when I get home. However, I'm going to refrain from talking about those things I'm going to do when I get home, because they will make me "trunky" (there is your missionary word for the week. It basically means homesick, or longing for something you can only have at home--for example, wanting to watch movies). That would not be good for me to get trunky, thus I refrain. However, I am looking forward to seeing all of you again. I know Elder Van Steeter is as well (for those of you who know him), because he and I have kept in contact since he entered the mission field. I am glad to share the work with my good friend, and definitely can't await many of your arrivals to the mission field. What would be even greater, is for one or two of you to find your way out to Nebraska with me. I would be more than glad to train you...unless you are a sister of course, and then I would just be glad to serve around you.
Anyway, reporting the good news, there are now ten people set for baptism in Columbus. The area is doing really well, and we just received news this last week that they will be making my area into two areas when transfers happen this week. There will be Columbus English, and Columbus Spanish instead of just one "Zebra Area" (which is a term for an english-speaking missionary serving with a spanish-speaking missionary, which I am currently doing). Our theory is that Elder Noonchester and I are getting split up, and will both be given a new companion, but we don't know yet. We find our transfer information tomorrow. Fun.
So how are you all doing? Write me and let me know. If you have any inspirational stories for me, I can always use those. They really do pump me up for the work. I am sorry I have failed to write all of you, but my hand kills after writing three letters, so I usually respond to letters I have currently received. Deb and Jake, I know I totally owe you a letter from forever ago! I think I also owe James and Steff, and Aunt Wendy as well...and Tim...and others. I will attempt to repent swiftly, but I can only do so much. Do know that I love you all, and intend to keep loving you all when I return. Don't hate me if you don't here from me much.
Well, I love you all, and hope I have more of a message to write next week. Keep doing missionary work all of you, and help the missionaries out in your area. The Lord needs you to do the work too, and I know He loves you all so much that He wants to bless you until you feel you can't be blessed anymore. These blessings will come when you do missionary work. "Keep the faith, keep the funk!" That would be a shout out to Sister Harwood, one of the three coolest sisters on the planet earth! Love you all! Talk to you next week!
Love, Elder Christopher D. Petersen
Monday, November 8, 2010
An Awesome Conversion . . .
Dear Sons of Mosiah,
The Mission Field is awesome, and it's white and ready to harvest! Jana Hager is going to be baptized on the 4th of December, and she is AWESOME! Jana is so prepared, and her story is a huge testimony builder to me about the power God gives to the pages of the Book of Mormon. Last night, about a half and hour before bed, she sent us a text to tell us that she was reading from the Book of Mormon. She told us that it is an amazing book. I told her I agree, and that it is an amazing book, but I was curious as to why she thought it was an amazing book. She told me that it was amazing because whenever she was reading it she felt something that inspired her to do good, and stay away from sin--or that was the concept anyway, without me being too specific. She then described the feeling she gets when she reads from it. I added a couple of feelings myself, and asked her if that was how she was feeling. She said my description was what she was feeling. I then identified it as the Spirit for her. With gratitude, she sent us a text saying that it might sound corny, but "thank you, sincerely". The Spirit took hold on me, and I felt an overwhelming gratitude to our Heavenly Father for allowing us to assist in her conversion process. Our conversation continued, and I accepted the thanks gladly and told my companion of the conversation since he too is doing this wonderful work and also deserves thanks to the same amount that I do. However, I let her know that we are merely instruments in the hands of God, and that this gift of the gospel which is she is receiving, is a gift from God.
God loves all of His children so much! Sometimes Satan makes it hard for us to see-- and possibly even more difficult to understand--but God truly is working in the lives of all of His children to prepare them to receive the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. How blessed we are to be instruments in this wonderful work! It is not only full-time missionaries who are instruments in God's hands to do this work. In fact, the members play a key role in most conversions! Jana has LDS family, and has had many good influences touch her life to prepare her to receive this gospel. Who's life will you touch to help them to receive the gospel? We all worry about our worldly cares, and sometimes are afraid to do this work--but what do we have to fear more, than that soul being lost? Anything? "The worth of every soul is great in the eyes of God."--Joseph Smith. As well, there is a scripture that is very similar to this quote.
My brethren, there is work to be done all around you, no matter where you are in life. Each of you know somebody who is not a member of Jesus Christ's Church here on the earth. What greater responsibility do you have than to reach out to your fellow man, and help them to find the gospel? I would guess none. Missionary Work is to be done by all members, both in and outside the home. We should also reach out to less-active members of the church, and help them to return into the loving arms of their Shepherd.
Pray for missionary opportunities always. We do not have to be perfect to do this work. God does not require that we give more than we are able, but that we give our entire capacity to the building of His Kingdom! You guys can do it. Together we can bring many people to the Kingdom of God, and then that day is going to be an amazing day with those people we bring. Can there be any greater happiness? Can there be any greater purpose in this life?
I love you guys! And thank you for the example that many of you have set for me. You are all great people! Don't forget who you are: Sons and Daughters of the Living God. Peace, and I can't wait until we all meet again...even if it is three or more years till we are all together again. See ya!
Love, Chris
The Mission Field is awesome, and it's white and ready to harvest! Jana Hager is going to be baptized on the 4th of December, and she is AWESOME! Jana is so prepared, and her story is a huge testimony builder to me about the power God gives to the pages of the Book of Mormon. Last night, about a half and hour before bed, she sent us a text to tell us that she was reading from the Book of Mormon. She told us that it is an amazing book. I told her I agree, and that it is an amazing book, but I was curious as to why she thought it was an amazing book. She told me that it was amazing because whenever she was reading it she felt something that inspired her to do good, and stay away from sin--or that was the concept anyway, without me being too specific. She then described the feeling she gets when she reads from it. I added a couple of feelings myself, and asked her if that was how she was feeling. She said my description was what she was feeling. I then identified it as the Spirit for her. With gratitude, she sent us a text saying that it might sound corny, but "thank you, sincerely". The Spirit took hold on me, and I felt an overwhelming gratitude to our Heavenly Father for allowing us to assist in her conversion process. Our conversation continued, and I accepted the thanks gladly and told my companion of the conversation since he too is doing this wonderful work and also deserves thanks to the same amount that I do. However, I let her know that we are merely instruments in the hands of God, and that this gift of the gospel which is she is receiving, is a gift from God.
God loves all of His children so much! Sometimes Satan makes it hard for us to see-- and possibly even more difficult to understand--but God truly is working in the lives of all of His children to prepare them to receive the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. How blessed we are to be instruments in this wonderful work! It is not only full-time missionaries who are instruments in God's hands to do this work. In fact, the members play a key role in most conversions! Jana has LDS family, and has had many good influences touch her life to prepare her to receive this gospel. Who's life will you touch to help them to receive the gospel? We all worry about our worldly cares, and sometimes are afraid to do this work--but what do we have to fear more, than that soul being lost? Anything? "The worth of every soul is great in the eyes of God."--Joseph Smith. As well, there is a scripture that is very similar to this quote.
My brethren, there is work to be done all around you, no matter where you are in life. Each of you know somebody who is not a member of Jesus Christ's Church here on the earth. What greater responsibility do you have than to reach out to your fellow man, and help them to find the gospel? I would guess none. Missionary Work is to be done by all members, both in and outside the home. We should also reach out to less-active members of the church, and help them to return into the loving arms of their Shepherd.
Pray for missionary opportunities always. We do not have to be perfect to do this work. God does not require that we give more than we are able, but that we give our entire capacity to the building of His Kingdom! You guys can do it. Together we can bring many people to the Kingdom of God, and then that day is going to be an amazing day with those people we bring. Can there be any greater happiness? Can there be any greater purpose in this life?
I love you guys! And thank you for the example that many of you have set for me. You are all great people! Don't forget who you are: Sons and Daughters of the Living God. Peace, and I can't wait until we all meet again...even if it is three or more years till we are all together again. See ya!
Love, Chris
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