Chapter 7 Manama Arahi (Heart that Leads)

09 Friday Jan 2015

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Chapter 7

Manawa Arahi was third brother of the four,

Also scarred by heat and ash from life, in battle’s gore,

The distance far between the light from brothers inner flame,

The constant smoke and pressured ash from fire concealed the name,

Of his broad sword of massive build, a bulk of metal raw,

Constrained, and pressured by the mighty grip of dragon claw,

The mounting force applied to squeeze the life from him inside,

As mounds of earth, and ash, and rock above him were applied.

But take his life, it failed to do, this pressure from the mound,

It purified his heart, and righteous clarity was found,

Like diamond formed through pressured ages under mountain tall,

His core contained the light to fight, and lead against the gall.

As diamond formed within his heart, and strength within him grew,

He burst out from below the mound of rock and ash renewed!

The flying embers from the mountain built by dragon claw,

Disappeared when shone upon by sword without a flaw!

The darkness burst, revealing light from massive sword upheld,

It’s size, it’s power, undenied, a beacon to be felt.

It’s writing glowed upon the hilt, in ancient written fire,

“Light from Darkness” it was named, it’s purpose to inspire.

His massive sword of bright white light, measured 8 feet long,

Could only rise up, held by hands and faith and wisdom strong,

Undoubting strength was seen by all who witnessed its pure power,

A beacon raised, inspiring faith, and strength in battle’s hour

His scabbard black, pitch, dark as night, concealed the mighty blade,

But when drawn out, its blinding light eliminated shade.

Which verified, confirmed, made true, the name inscribed thereon,

That light from darkness leads as beacon, mighty righteous throngs!

Not him alone within that mound of ash and rock and flame,

But shared, his life with loving wife, experience the same,

For power held within her strengthened him while under rock,

And triggered light to start the fight, to break the dragon’s lock!

Her light was bent, intensified, as if through prism walls,

His light, her light, within his heart expanding, making tall,

For diamond now his heart that leads, but not without her spark,

Her origin of godly light required to play his part.

Chapter 6 Aroha Te Oaoa (Love and Happiness)

08 Thursday Jan 2015

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Chapter 6

Aroha Te Oaoa was The eldest warrior queen,

who wed the eldest brother when his worth was yet unseen,

Her shield,the one deflecting fire spewed from the dragon tongue,

Her skill to see, protect, and love, instilled in her while young.

Her father, hidden grandmaster, of skill and weaponry,

A wise, and savvy warrior was, who taught in secrecy.

So from her youth, refined the skill, and natural it came,

To see the hidden writing and to see the hidden names,

Upon the shields and weapons of her closest family ties,

The grandmaster had given her the power of pure eyes.

Her eyes could see the hidden, potential, or deceit,

The truth she knew, could not be fooled, her knowledge pure, complete.

Her name interpreted direct, meant “Love and Happiness”,

And all who crossed her path would feel concern and tenderness,

But when confronted by the shadows from the evil one,

Her light that shone from heart and sword, burned bright, as midday sun.

Her sword developed as she grew, and thought, and wisdom gained

The writing on the hilt was clear, and soon it gained its name,

The name, its purpose, clear, concise, inspired from Gods above,

the writing on the hilt divine, its name was “Light and Love”

Her sword not meant for battle fierce, and enemies to maim,

but differed in its purpose true, to teach, inspire, and train.

For her young soldiers, young and new, were precious in her eyes,

Her sword did aid in training them, to her, they were the prize.

The four young soldiers, trained to see, what battle lie ahead,

the mist was drawn from their young eyes, clear truth placed there instead.

For light from sword and heart was giv’n, to each young girl and boy,

To brighten, show, to warn, help grow, to all their strength employ.

Her sword pure white of blinding flame, the hilt of silver leaf,

was kept, displayed, for all to see, in flawless crystal sheath.

For shadow could not be within her presence, nor abide,

for light dispensed them instantly, her power, lit inside.

Chapter 5 Toa Nanakia (Man of Indignation)

08 Thursday Jan 2015

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Chapter 5

Toa also drew upon the power of his kin,

intent to know the purpose of the fire that burned within,

His brothers younger, yet had cleared his eyes of darkened veil

that shrouded understanding of the purpose life entails.

For he, like others, was not free from dragon flame and char,

His arms and hands were fire scorched, across his face, a scar.

Reminding him of claw and flame, of daggers, dragon’s breath,

Relentless fire and darts that flew, to bring about his death.

But with him stood amidst the fire, Aroha she was named,

Deflected onslaught just enough, survived the dragon flame.

Her name interpreted meant “love”, displayed in full that day,

without her intervening hand’s inspiring display.

From that day hence, his ire was stoked, white flame would not go out,

Refined his weapons were at last, from fire within and out.

His anger, built of animus towards darkness, mist of night,

His sword appeared, and differed from the swords of flame and light.

His blade, pitch black obsidian, the handle made of bone,

serrated teeth of jaguar fang, embedded shards of stone,

Was meant to break, and tear, and cleave, dismantle and to maim.

Hence, “Marrow Spiller” it was called, its purpose in its name.

He also wielded smaller knife, a dagger hid from view,

concealed within small hidden sheath, blade of dark green hue,

His dagger named the “Death Bringer”, for ultimate the fate,

of those who fight against the light, the dragon emulate.

The handle, hardened ivory, from ancient tusk was made,

secured the blade so thin and sharp, transluscent polished jade.

Its touch was final, terminal, as referenced in its name,

its purpose to defeat the heat of dragon fire and flame.

And though without, appearance was, of anger, rage, and ire,

within him was the gentle flame of love that was inspired,

His wife, Aroha, fed that flame, and fueled it with her hand,

to point him, focused, when he stood and fought across the land.

For loyalty, fierce honor, and commitment was the fuel,

that fed his drive, prepared his heart, for work, it was his tool.

Her key was matched so perfectly, into his fit as one,

For her steadfast unending love, could never be undone.

A great and kinda not so great, but really great gift

04 Sunday Jan 2015

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Adapted from EQ discussion 1/4/15:

Like any father, our Heavenly Father loves to give his children gifts.  He gives us these gifts because he loves us.  The majority of the time we don’t deserve them, but they keep coming.  He also doesn’t make mistakes in giving us specific gifts.  The gift of the Holy Ghost, spiritual gifts, life, a plan of happiness, etc… One particular gift that He gives is seldom thought of, but can bring great joy, if used correctly.

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 for all men that humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.1

So what is the gift?  Weakness.

Everyone has weaknesses – and its ok.  It is not a mistake or a punishment that we have weakness.  Upon encountering a blind man, a disciple of Christ asks who did sin, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?  Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents; but that the works of God should be make manifest in him.2 This man later, through Jesus, the priesthood, faith, and obedience, receives his sight. He bears strong testimony of the Son of God.

This man was born with a physical weakness.  I am sure that he, at times, had an incredibly difficult life filled with misery and anguish that I can’t imagine. When we meet him he lived in the streets begging for food.  He could not have possibly known that there was a purpose for his struggles and suffering.  But, through Christ, we do.  How often do we know why we are given the weaknesses, whether physical, intellectual, spiritual, or emotional?

The scriptures are riddled with examples of ‘weak’ individuals becoming strong – even spiritual giants.  David described himself by saying I am a poor man, and lightly esteemed.3 Funny enough, this is after killing Goliath.  Talk about humility.  Moses was not eloquent, slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. He was so hesitant, that the anger of the Lord was kindled against him.4 Enoch was but a lad, slow of speech5 when he was called.  Mormon was in his sixteenth year6 when he was appointed leader of the Nephite army.  Joseph Smith was an obscure boy, only between 14 and 15 years of age7 when he entered the Sacred Grove.  Moroni feared that the gentiles would mock at these things because of our weakness in writing and awkwardness of our hands when comparing his writing to the brother of Jared’s. 8

These people were able to become strong out of weakness.  We have been promised that we can do the same.  How?  Moroni teaches that if they humble themselves before [God], and have faith1 we can do so.  We must become as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, and full of love.9

Undertaking this transformation can be overwhelming.  Is there a more simple or succinct answer?  Yes.  When Mary anointed Jesus’ head with expensive oil, Judas murmured, thinking that she should have sold the oil and given it to the poor, but Christ, the Master says, Let her alone, why trouble ye her?  She hath wrought a good work on me … She hath done what she could.10

How awesome is that!  She hath done what she could.  We just need to do our best.  We, with our weakness, our imperfections, our guilt, our pride, our sorrow, our addiction, our sin, just need to be humble, admit that we have weakness, turn to Christ, repent, follow in faith and do our best.

At times we may be instruments in helping others overcome weakness.  In turn, others often help us overcome our own.  I can name several that have helped me personally in just the last few months, most unknowingly.  Tests and trials that we have overcome give us the valuable opportunity to assist others in a way that many who have not struggled in a similar way cannot.  Knowing someone else has overcome a similar trial or weakness gives strength and confidence to continue forward in hope for a more bright future.  In helping or serving others we become more like Christ.  We are able, as He is, to support, to comfort, to succor.

“Through an ever-closer kinship with God, a person’s worst flaws and failings may eventually be transformed into shining strengths.  What consolation!  When we acknowledge our weakness to the Lord and receive His aid, a precious side-effect follows — fervent compassion for others and a new concern to love and lift”.11  We do not judge as a natural man9, but have charity toward our struggling neighbors.  We realize that we are all beggars12 in the same boat, depending on and looking to the same source for light and life.  Let us help each other instead of putting others down because their weaknesses are different than our own.

So, our weakness can always become strength?  Not necessarily.  Paul taught another important lesson concerning weakness.

Paul had a weakness that he called a thorn in the flesh that kept him humble.  He asked the Lord three times to remove this weakness.  All three times the Master Teacher answered ‘No’, explaining my grace is sufficient for thee; for my strength is made perfect in weakness.  Paul, because he is awesome, got it.  He wrote, I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.  Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then am I strong.13

Boom.  Paul just dropped the mic.

There must be opposition in all things.14 God did not accidently give us weakness nor accidently give us a trial that we cannot overcome.  We need to learn to work, to struggle, to be meek and mild, to rely on others.  We need to understand forgiveness and rely upon the mercy and atonement of our Savior to find happiness, to succeed.

But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.15

Now, I don’t mean to glorify weakness.  Truly, we should constantly work to overcome and convert our weaknesses into strengths and keep them that way.  We can, however, glory in the knowledge that we are not alone in this fight. There is a way, a truth, and a life.16  Like Paul, the power of Christ will rest upon us when we are humble.  That, we can glory in.

1 Ether 12:27

2 John 9:1-3

3 1 Samuel 18:23

4 Exodus 4:10-14

5 Moses 6:31

6 Mormon 3:2

7 Joseph Smith – History 1:22

8 Ether 12:23-24

9 Mosiah 3:19

10 Mark 14:6,8

11 Truman G Madsen, I Have A Question

12 Mosiah 4:19-20

13 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

14 Tyson Alexander, Opposition.  See also 2 Nephi 2:11

15 1 Corinthians 1:27

16 John 14:6

Chapter 4 Kaiako Mura (Teacher’s Flame)

04 Sunday Jan 2015

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Chapter 4 

Kaiako next to see his sword, and shield and weapons name, 

Discovered depth of thought and truth, for which he’d soon proclaim.

For strength in words and voice were his, the captured thundrous pow’r

To make all those who heard his cry, to know, to shrink and cower.

For fierce had been the dragon fire that charred him constantly, 

and all he saw was smoky bleak, alone he seemed to be.

But in the hour of fire, and heat, and smoke of blackened air, 

His warrior bride, stood by his side, his hour of deep despair.

And from the strength of two, emerged the writing on his sword, 

and understanding, pure had come by written holy words.

Gave him pow’r to overcome and take his new forged shield, 

and shout with voice of thunder, flaming sword he now did wield.

His sword was named, a statement made, to end all doubt and fear.

“I End My Message” was the name, as writing did appear.

The blinding fire of flaming sword lept from the hilt to tip,  

these flames emitting heat that melted evil’s icy grip.

Its platinum blade, and golden hilt, protected when encased, 

but drawn, its fire consumed dark fiends to black and ashen waste.

When drawn, however, purposefully, its flame brought more than ash, 

its heat was comfort, warmth, and courage, love and light at last.

The blade of whiteness, platinum sheen would draw all eyes to see, 

his sword of heavenly make it seemed, from God’s own armory.

The hilt, pure gold, with writing old, of ancient sacred writ, 

Gave power, sent minions cowering into the fiery pit.

For when raised up, its flame caught fire, igniting thunderous booms,

And all who fought against the light, were wary of the doom,

For all who saw the sword raised up, Its fiery flame ablaze,

had knowledge of the truth therein, loud thunder through the haze.

Chapter 3 Ringa Rongoa (Hands that Heal)

03 Saturday Jan 2015

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Chapter 3

Ringa Rongoa, was first to see true meaning brought by flame,

The Dragon breath, enhanced his strength, revealing his true name,

And as the flames of Dragons fire were spewed across his shield,

refinement came, true eyes to see, pure knowledge was fulfilled.

For his young daughter, weak of health, infirm, too sick to stand,

T’was God’s pure thought that came to him, to heal her with his hand.

His faith refined as he began to act in strength, and willed,

that soft young daughter back to whole, his calling now fulfilled.

Now clear his eyes, and pure his heart, force joined with loving wife,

Her key unlocked his pow’r to see, his purpose, destined life.

And with his eyes now open, and seeing clear the path,

His swords he named, the writing blazed, “God’s Fury”, and “Gods Wrath”

Both weapons fierce and mighty pure white steel, reflecting light,

that shone as striking lightning bolts when drawn before a fight.

the scabbards long were hung upon his side, displayed his might,

deterring foes, and fiends of darkness, within the mists of night.

Twin blades he wielded forcefully, and with both raised up high,

the lightning cracked from heav’n above! Burnt evil, sent to die.

The fiery light, From Godly home, rent minions, darkened souls,

and gave bright hope to languid hearts still bound in dark morose.

His power now increasing fast, and eyes clear from the haze,

the pupose now to guide the ones still struggling in the maze,

The light emitted from within his scabbord, hidden sword,

Would be enough, wild fire would come, ignited with his words.

Destined meeting, four together, something stirred one night,

a spark was kindled, by the tale of battle’s righteous fight.

for he had seen the power in his hands and in his swords,

and fed a feast to all who sat and listened to his words.

That night together stories shared between the brothers four,

inspired the search within them all for what their powers were.

For similar the fire and smoke of Dragon breath had blazed,

upon the shields of all of them, a fiery smoky haze.

Toa, Kaiako, and Manawa fueled by battle’s tale,

all looked upon their smoldering shields not bright, but soft and pale.

But soon increased intent to see what truly lay beneath,

the charred and blackened shields they’d used against the Dragon teeth.

Chapter 2

03 Saturday Jan 2015

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Chapter 2

All the land prepared to fight the evil seen, unseen,

the battles rage continuous, black smoke plumed blindingly.

Swords and daggers, armor, helms and shields constructed by the young,

To be refined amid the fire spewed from the Dragon’s tongue.

The brothers swords, created plain, just like all others were,

yet raw, unchallenged, roughly forged, and still their names a blur.

For naming weapons was the sign of knowledge of their worth,

Unnamed weapons-were as saplings small, just cresting from the earth.

4 brothers grew, and made their armor, swords, and helms of steel,

daggers, shields and banners too, but no names did they yet yield.

For lost was urgency of war, and numbed with apathy,

4 brothers, drifted on with life, not knowing what they’d be.

The brothers 4, ordained from birth had wed 4 warrior queens,

who had been placed, to fit their lock, unleash, they were the keys.

For, when together, fit as one, unbounded synergy,

receptacles for light’s embrace, and reflected energy.

The Sons, all named by influence, sent by the Gods own hands,

to guide, direct, and place them where they would upon the land,

The Eldest son, firstborn, Toa Nanakia was his name,

Interpreted meant “Savage warrior”, wild violence untamed.

The Second son was born in turn, Kaiako Mura he was named,

Interpreted meant “He who teaches with the fire and flame”

The Third Son came, received the name, Manawa Arahi,

Interpreted meant “Heart that Leads” to inspire powerfully.

The Fourth Son, Ringa Rongoa, His name upon his birth,

Interpreted meant “Hands that Heal” as lightning striking earth.

All grew together in their youth, untapped strength within them lay,

yet, they saw not the potent power of Godly fire and flame,

It lay within them dormant, this hidden strength and might,

But soon to be awoken, kindled, by desire to fight.

The Gods allowed the sons below to face the dragon fire,

To forge, refine, unveil the pow’r within their soul’s thick mire.

The writing on the swords was such, that only with the fire,

of dragon’s breath or minion’s dart, its name would be inspired.

For change within the armor showed when blasted by the heat,

and permanent the power that came, Gods judgment then to mete.

For weak before, but strength increased with time in scorching flame,

To then be ready to stand up defending God’s pure name.

The dragon fire rained down upon each brother one by one,

their separate power, not trained, but raw, was weak, and near succumbed,

In part to its vile, lying heat, yet from the vicious fire,

The armor held, refined in heat, renewed vigor, righteous ire!

Chapter 1

02 Friday Jan 2015

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The next several posts coming from me will be a family history of sorts. It won’t be journal entries, or actual recorded events, but more like if our stories were coming from one of the dwarves living in middle earth in Tolkein’s Lord of the Rings. It just seemed like it would be funner to read that way.

The names used are not the actual names but have been changed to be more awesome.

Kab’ = Mayan word for “land” or “earth”

The land of Kab’

Behold the land for man and beast to learn to prove their worth,
Created battlefield for war, of water, fire, and earth.
An ancient story rife with love and hate and battle fierce,
But meant to teach, inspire, give hope, hard hearts with love to pierce.

Chapter 1

Pure sunlight danced upon the peaks of mountains topped with snow,
above the valley’s cracks and chasms, mist of darkness’ flow.
For above the fire and smoke below, pure light was there to see,
Its warmth and brightness calms all fear, darkness’ chains cut free.

Below, in darkness, evil bound and dragged the souls of men,
and soft, unsure the pathways were, for all who dwelt therein.
Above, in light, the Gods inspired, and guided hearts of men,
With straight, and solid paths of stone, to lead them back again.

Before the days began there was a council of the Gods,
For then, mankind had not the skill nor power that it sought,
Two plans were laid before the Gods- first better than the last.
Battle raged, rebellious fiends rebuked, to darkness cast.

The minions worshipped foolishly the one who’s lies began
the battle for the souls and lives of all the sons of man.
They dwell below the surface, recessed cracks of earth and sod,
vicarious the war they wage with men against the Gods.

The Gods had sent man down amid calamity and pain,
To learn to be as they are now, experience to gain,
But man was never left alone, without his weapons true,
The Gods provided strength, lent power- for men, their will to do.

So thus the battle setting lay, far below the heavn’ly light,
Amid the smoky darkened waste, of sin, and blood, and hate,
To forge with dragon blood and fire, man’s mettle new and raw,
their swords meant to defend against, the mighty Dragon’s awe.

And now the story will be told, of battle, weapons drawn,
And raised against the Dragon, to expose his mighty flaw.
And all his imps and demons would meet power, strength, and might,
to wilt among the dying embers from the fiery fight.

The lineage vein, the family blood, was pure, and strong within,
They came, each one in their own time, to face the dragon’s sin.
The land was bleak and dark at times, but even through the mist,
a petitioned beam of God-sent light would render heaven’s kiss.

4 brothers born, down in the dark, their powers hidden deep,
within themselves, it grew unseen, unfelt, a dormant sleep.
4 other warrior women sent to that embattled land,
would have a mighty role to play, within the Master’s plan.

4 Sisters then would come along, and within the fight soon be,
Augmenting, shielding, training sons and daughters tirelessly.
For battle comes and forces all to join or shirk the fight,
To cower low in fire and dust, or fight for truth and light!

The Spirit of Christmas

22 Monday Dec 2014

Posted by in Christmas, Music, Poems

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Christmas time is a special time.  I think we all feel that.  One of the reasons that I feel it is such a special time, is because Christmas music has a special way of inviting the spirit.  This is because the spirit testifies of truth no matter what, and Christmas time is the one time all year, that everyone has Christmas music playing, and the likelihood of feeling that spirit of truth is greatly increased.  The spirit confirms all truth, and Christmas music is full of truth, whether we fully realize it or not.

As part of this Christmas season, and in a very real effort to invite that spirit into all of our lives, I am listing 5 of my favorite Christmas songs, that contain some of the most powerful phrases that we may or may not realize we are singing or hearing.

  1. O Holy Night

One of my absolute favorites is O Holy Night, which was originally a French poem (Minuit, Chrétiens) which means Midnight, Christians.1 I am including the English (traditional translation) with the literal (non-traditional) translation, since I think if we know where it came from, it may help.

Traditional

Oh Holy Night

The stars are brightly shining

It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth

Long lay the world in sin and error pining

‘Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth

A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.

Fall on your knees O hear the angels voices.

O night divine O night when Christ was born

O night divine, O night, O night divine.

Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming,

With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.

So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,

Here came the wise men from Orient land.

The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger;

In all our trials born to be our friend.

He knows our need, to our weakness is no stranger,

Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend!

Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another;

His law is love and His gospel is peace.

Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother;

And in His name all oppression shall cease.

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,

Let all within us praise His holy name.

Christ is the Lord! O praise His Name forever,

His power and glory evermore proclaim.

O night divine, O night, O night divine

Literal

Midnight, Christians, is the solemn hour,

When God as man descended unto us

To erase the stain of original sin

And to end the wrath of His Father.

The entire world thrills with hope

On this night that gives it a Saviour.

People, kneel down, await your deliverance.

Christmas, Christmas, here is the Redeemer,

Christmas, Christmas, here is the Redeemer!

May the ardent light of our Faith

Guide us all to the cradle of the infant,

As in ancient times a brilliant star

Guided the Oriental kings there.

The King of Kings was born in a humble manger;

O mighty ones of today, proud of your greatness,

It is to your pride that God preaches.

Bow your heads before the Redeemer!

Bow your heads before the Redeemer!

The Redeemer has broken every bond:

The Earth is free, and Heaven is open.

He sees a brother where there was only a slave,

Love unites those that iron had chained.

Who will tell Him of our gratitude,

For all of us He is born, He suffers and dies.

People, stand up! Sing of your deliverance,

Christmas, Christmas, sing of the Redeemer,

Christmas, Christmas, sing of the Redeemer!

  1. Still, Still, Still

Another of my favorites has always been still, still, still.  We actually sang this in our choir performance yesterday, and our director, in an inspired effort included a little handout with the ward program that included the words to all of the songs that we sang, and my wife mentioned to me that she had never really read the words to this song.

Still, still, still,

One can hear the falling snow.

For all is hushed,

The world is sleeping,

Holy Star its vigil keeping.

Still, still, still,

One can hear the falling snow.

Sleep, sleep, sleep,

‘Tis the eve of our Saviour’s birth.

The night is peaceful all around you,

Close your eyes,

Let sleep surround you.

Sleep, sleep, sleep,

‘Tis the eve of our Saviour’s birth.

Dream, dream, dream,

Of the joyous day to come.

While guardian angels without number,

Watch you as you sweetly slumber.

Dream, dream, dream,

Of the joyous day to come.

  1. Silent Night

Silent night is such a Christmas classic, that we often forget how much of a powerhouse it is.  As a note, I like to change the wording in verse 2 (Radiant to Radiance), and verse 3 (Glories stream to Glory streams) since President Dalquist instructed us to when I was in high school.  I’ve never been able to sing it any other way since then.  Please note the use of exclamation points in this soft lullaby.

Silent night! Holy night!

All is calm, all is bright

Round yon virgin, mother and Child.

Holy infant, tender and mild,

Sleep in heavenly peace;

Sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night! Holy night!

Shepherds quake at the sight!

Glory streams from heaven afar

Heav’nly hosts sing Alleluia!

Christ the Savior is born!

Christ the Savior is born!

Silent night! Holy night!

Son of God, love’s pure light

Radiance beams from thy holy face,

With the dawn of redeeming grace,

Jesus, Lord at thy birth

Jesus, Lord at thy birth.

  1. Joy to the World

If there was ever a Christmas song that you can’t sing loud enough, it might be this one.  Our choir sang this while being accompanied by both the piano and the organ – and even when the congregation joined in for the 4th verse, it wasn’t nearly loud enough.  This is the one song that I relate very directly to the choirs of angels referenced in Luke 2:13-14.

Joy to the world, the Lord is come!

Let earth receive her King!

Let ev’ry heart prepare him room,

And Saints and angels sing.

And Saints and angles sing,

And Saints, and saints and angels sing.

Rejoice! Rejoice when Jesus reigns

And saints their songs employ,

While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains

Repeat the sounding joy,

Repeat the sounding joy,

Repeat, repeat the sounding joy

No more will sin and sorrow grow,

Nor thorns infest the ground;

He’ll come and make the blessings flow

Far as the curse was found,

Far as the curse was found,

Far as, far as the curse was found

Rejoice! Rejoice in the Most High,

While Israel spreads abroud

Like stars that glitter in the sky,

And ever worship God,

And ever worship God,

And ever, and ever worship God.

  1. In the Bleak Midwinter

This is a relatively unknown Christmas song, but the message is still crystal clear, and is sung by many great artists.

In the bleak mid-winter

Frosty wind made moan,

Earth stood hard as iron,

Water like a stone;

Snow had fallen, snow on snow,

Snow on snow,

In the bleak midwinter

Long ago.

Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him

Nor earth sustain;

Heaven and earth shall flee away

When He comes to reign:

In the bleak mid-winter

A stable-place sufficed

The Lord God Almighty,

Jesus Christ.

Angels and archangels

May have gathered there,

Cherubim and seraphim

Thronged the air –

But only His mother

In her maiden bliss

Worshipped the Beloved

With a kiss.

What can I give Him,

Poor as I am?

If I were a shepherd

I would bring a lamb;

If I were a wise man

I would do my part;

Yet what I can, I give Him

Give my heart.

Other notable lines/phrases:

He came down to earth from heaven,

Who is God and Lord of all,

And his shelter was a stable,

And his cradle was a stall;

With the poor, and mean, and lowly,

Lived on earth our Savior holy.

And our eyes at last shall see him,

Through his own redeeming love;

For that child so dear and gentle

Is our Lord in heav’n above,

And he leads his children on

To the place where he is gone.

(Once in Royal David’s City)

Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay

Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.

Bless all the dear children in thy tender care,

And fit us for heaven to live with thee there.

(Away in a Manager)

How silently, how silently

The wondrous gift is giv’n!

So God imparts to human hearts

The blessings of his heav’n.

No ear may hear his coming;

But in this world of sin,

Where meek souls will receive him, still

The dear Christ enters in.

(O Little Town of Bethlehem)

Hail the heav’n-born Prince of Peace!

Hail the Son of Righteousness!

Light and life to all he brings,

Ris’n with healing in his wings.

Mild he lays his glory by,

Born that man no more may die;

Born to raise the sons of earth,

Born to give them second birth.

(Hark! The Herald Angels Sing)

Ring in the valiant men and free,

The larger heart, the kindlier hand.

Ring out the darkness of the land;

Ring in the Christ that is to be.

Ring out the darkness of the land;

Ring in the Christ that is to be.

(Ring Out, Wild Bells)

What child is this, who, laid to rest,

On Mary’s lap is sleeping?

Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,

While shepherds watch are keeping?

This, this is Christ the King,

Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:

Haste, haste to bring Him laud,

The babe, the son of Mary.

(What Child is This)

O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free

Thine own from Satan’s tyranny

From depths of Hell Thy people save

And give them victory o’er the grave

Disperse the gloomy clouds of night

And death’s dark shadows put to flight.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel

Shall come to thee, O Israel.

(O Come O Come Emmanuel)

Come, thou long expected Jesus,

Born to set thy people free;

From our fears and sins release us,

Let us find our rest in thee.

Israel’s strength and consolation,

Hope of all the earth thou art;

Dear desire of every nation,

Joy of every longing heart.

Born thy people to deliver,

Born a child and yet a King,

Born to reign in us forever,

Now thy gracious kingdom bring.

By thine own eternal spirit

Rule in all our hearts alone;

By thine all sufficient merit,

Raise us to thy glorious throne

(Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus)

Notes

1 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/O_Holy_Night

The Greatest Gift Exchange Ever

08 Monday Dec 2014

Posted by in Christmas

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We’ve all been there before. Christmas is approaching and you have that one person on your list that is impossible to buy for. It’s your mother in law, your boss, or Ted from accounting whose name you drew in the company gift exchange you immediately regret participating in. The following is a story that I wished really happened to me, at a company I wished really existed, that I really wish I really worked for. Even though it’s just a story, I hope you’ll still get the point.

I was working as an employee of Heaven Incorporated, the biggest company in the Universe. Owned and operated by God, with Jesus Christ as President and CEO. The esteemed Joseph Smith headed the board of Directors which also includes Nephi, Abinadi, King Benjamin, Heleman, Moroni, Alma, and Samuel the Lamanite. It’s a flawlessly run company with about 150 gazillion employees. The annual birthday celebration of our CEO was approaching and I was so excited because the owner always makes it a big deal! For this event all the employees from all divisions are called to the Great Hall where the annual drawing of names takes place for the gift exchange. This year It was also announced that for the first time ever, God would also be entered in the annual gift exchange. How Exiting!

I was in the elevator heading down with Ephraim Hanks, Tiancum, and 7 of the stripling warriors singing “everything is awesome” in unison because at Heaven Incorporated everything really is awesome. The gift exchange from the year prior was a breeze! I drew was Frank from shipping. It was super easy, I just had my wife gift wrap his Olive Garden gift certificate and then stuffed myself silly with Moses’s famous Cinnamon Manna bread that is a huge hit every year.

I reached the lobby and said Hi to Gordon B Hinckley who runs the product develop division and his assistant Hyrum Smith. I hopped in line to draw the name from the hat. My turn finally came and I stuck my hand in among the gazillion names and pulled out a paper. Oh boy, wait… this must be a mistake! My knees buckled as I read it again. Sure enough it was unmistakable. My paper read: God.

No way! Suddenly my jokes with Lehi and Ammon a minute ago in line about the difficulties of buying gifts for our wives didn’t seem that funny anymore. I had a real conundrum on my hands. What would I, what should I and what could I possibly give God? It was obvious it was going to have to be more heartfelt then an Olive Garden Gift certificate. I couldn’t get it off my mind.

I stressed all day and upon getting home I wracked my brain. How about the new iphone 6? Nah. Everybody knows he’s totally an android guy. How about a super exotic bore hair brush for him to comb his beard? Nah. How about a sweet new Calvin Klein robe? No way. Making no progress I started “googling” all sorts of stuff like “what to get the guy who has everything” and “what to give the almighty at the Christmas party gift exchange” but it didn’t help. Finally I gave up and went to bed still empty handed for the gift exchange the following day. At work the next morning I finally had the “ah hah” moment I was waiting for! I knew what I would get God! Duh, it’s what everyone would love! (at least I knew I would) I would get him A Gopro Hero 4 Black Edition Video Camera! “Yes! Nailed it” I thought! I went and purchased the gift and arrived back at work just in time for the party and gift exchange full of confidence and feeling like 10 thousand talents!

The gift exchanges commenced as the employees gathered in the great hall and were called up two by two to be witnessed by all. Everyone was having a good time. Peter, James and John all got matching ugly Christmas sweaters while Mathew, Mark, and Luke all got the new Piano Guys album on Itunes they all wanted. John the Baptist got a pair of waterproof waders, Enos got a pair of knee pads and Porter Rockwell got a new Norelco beard and mustache trimmer set. Everything was going swell and then the moment of truth arrived. The last two people to exchange gifts were called forward, God and myself.

God politely asked to go first and presented my gift. It was small and wrapped beautifully. With my hands shaking I opened it. It was a handwritten note. I began reading out loud for all to hear:

To Riley,

You may think I do not know you, as I oversee countless from a far, but that my child just isn’t true, I know exactly who you are!

I know your talents and your gifts, for I gave them all to you, the very body which you have, your abilities and senses too.

The very air you breathe, through the lungs that fill your chest, your very soul within you, and the heart beating within your breast.

I granted you your very life, and everything joyful you find, my greatest gift above all these, was my Son so perfect and so kind.

I’ve provided for you the Priesthood, and Temples to dot the earth, that you may help others also, for I consider you of great worth!

I make possible your way, every day of your life, I’ve lead you to a beautiful woman, who you are blessed to call your wife.

I knew she would make you happy, and in you bring out your best, to support you in all things, and leave you richly blessed.

Not a single day I’ve left you, and that I will never do, for without me you would be lost, and I will not forsake you.

I love you more than you can know, but please know this my Son, I will be waiting here to greet you again, when your life is done

Signed,

You’re Boss, God.

Filled with incredible love and gratitude for God and his Son I realized the very works I had read aloud had brought not only myself but the entire hall to their knees in gratitude for the Father. The words from God which I had read had entered the hearts of those watching. With tears down my face I pondered for a second. I was stumped on how to respond. My simple vocabulary wouldn’t suffice to portray the love and gratitude I was feeling. I felt inadequate to the highest degree. I turned around to view those in the hall, many with tears streaks down their face also.  The entire Hall was filled to its entirety yet was completely and totally silent. Then, reality entered again and I realized I was TOAST! I thought back at the gift I had to give God and lost all confidence in it. Nothing could even come close to measuring up to what I had been given. I came to this gift exchange feeling like 10 thousand talents and now I felt more like 100 pence. My gift wouldn’t even qualify as a “white elephant gift” in comparison. Then a gentle thought entered my mind. I found the courage and raised myself to my feet and though my very frame shook, I spoke simply and clearly.

“Father, as you know I am a simple man, born as the mortal Son of a school teacher in a small town. I am not of royalty or of riches or esteem. I speak but a single language, and have never traveled to any foreign countries. I do not have decades of advanced learning to claim, nor do I hold any degrees in physics, law, or chemistry. I know little of science or astronomy or of different cultures of the world…”

“However, I will tell thee what I do know. I know exactly who thou art! I know of thy power, thy abilities and incredible unfailing love for myself and all that ever were or will be. I know of thy patience, tenderness, mercy, guidance, and forgiveness. I know thy Son also, even Jesus the Christ!  I know of his sacrifice for all that we might be able to again live within thy presence. I know and revere the Priesthood and its power and ability to perform thy will, with thy power in the name of thy Son! I know thou hast given me the body which I care for, along with the gifts, talents, and abilities I am grateful and thankful unto thee for. I know thou art in control of all things and hast all power. How do I know this? Because I feel it! The very soul which thou hast given me explodes with gratitude, love and joy for thee and thy son! I know that thou art God, and that Christ is Christ because I feel it! The Spirit has made it manifest unto me! I have felt thy love, I have felt thy presence, I love thee and I know that thou does love me also! I have used the Priesthood in the name of thy Son and spoke the very words which thou placed into my mind! I have seen miracles performed by thee for my benefit! I know that thou art here, and that thou does live, and that thy son does live also! I know that thy Son is perfect and hast provided the perfect example of how I should live. I seek to live by that example every day of my life. I seek to follow thee and thy son in all ways each and every day. I know that I am imperfect and I am grateful for the sacrifice of thy son and for the means to one day remain with thee. I am grateful for the gifts, talents and abilities which thou so generously bestows upon my head. I am grateful for the type of spirit thou has made me Father. I am grateful to at times be allowed to be a tool in thy hands and I am grateful for all things thou hast done or will do for me”.

At these words I again found myself upon my knees drained, as if the words and feeling of love had exhausted my physical body. Looking down I continued…

“Father, I have nothing to give to thee of worth but myself. The very gifts I have received from thee I have sought to also share with others. I know these gifts are above the worth of the world and I seek to freely give of them. I have not, for I cannot keep them unto myself. However, if thou does at this point or at any other want them back, know that I will freely give them unto thee. Thou canst have my very body, my life, even my very soul if it pleases thee Father, for that is what I strive only to do. Praise and glory be to thee for all things. Slowly, raising my head again still feeling inadequate and meeting my Father’s eyes I said “Father, I give myself to thee for that is all I have to give”.

With these words tears rolled down my Father’s eyes. He replied “What greater gift than this can there be? This gift, is the gift which I seek. Well done Riley, my good and faithful servant. The smallest gift of all is a man wrapped in himself, for he gives not even that to others”. He opened his arms and beckoned me forward. Our embrace was the sweetest I have ever known with a feeling of love and gratitude beyond description. At this, the hall exploded with joy! It was as if all the words both received and given between God and myself were received and given by all.

Then, with words only for me to hear and a smile and wink God said “by the way, you can keep the GoPro Hero 4 Black Edition Camera you bought for me, you’ll enjoy it more than I will”. Wahoo!! It was officially the best gift exchange ever!

There are multiple morals of this story, and I’ll let you distinguish them for yourself. However, if you take nothing more from this story just remember what this Christmas season is all about. Know that Christ truly is “the gift” which is the greatest gift ever given, and it was given to all. Let us all remember that “The smallest gift of all is a man wrapped in himself”. This season and always let’s strive to #sharethegift