Be not afraid

Matthew 14–15; Mark 6–7; John 5–6 Luke 13:11-13 recounts an interesting episode involving a woman who “was bowed together” (literally, bent double/bowed down) Perhaps one of the least famous in Christ’s mortal ministry, this miracle has some beautiful symbolism if we liken it to the Atonement. The woman was forced by her condition to crouch over, and she could not stand up straight (KJV gives this as “could in no wise lift up herself” but some other translations, in more modern English, render it “unable to stand up straight.” etc.) The Savior “looses” her of this condition (as if He has taken a burden off her back) and she is made “straight” i.e. able to stand up, at which point she glorifies God. But of course we have no idea what her life would have been like without this infirmity. Would she have ever approached Christ at all if she had not been in urgent need due to her physical condition? Did she have to become “unable to stand”/”bent double” so as to be made to rise up and stand, in more ways than one (physical and more importantly spiritual)? SOMETIMES TRIALS ARE THE PREQUISITE FOR SAVING HUMILITY Sometimes the trials of life – emotional, physical, social – bring us to a humility that allows us to be truly spiritually receptive. Ultimately this humility can become quite literally the saving grace of our lives, as it brings us to seek out and commune with God.

Not to suggest that because something can lead to a positive spiritual outcome, it was God’s will that it happen. Many trials exist simply because humans mistreat each other. Alma does not condone the exclusionary/well-off Zoramites’ actions or suggest that it was God’s will that the poor be cast out – neither is the case. He simply comments that, in this condition, the impoverished Zoramites had an opportunity to turn their life condition into something much better. Many of us pray bowing our head, and even kneeling down – in which case our body is bent over, not unlike the woman bowed down. We must first be willing to become bent down low, so that we can rise up in the full strength of a child of God who knows their destiny.

Christ had gone off to rest and reflect and pray after the grand miracle of feeding the five thousand with the fishes and loaves. Jesus sends the disciples telling them, “I will meet you on the other shore. Nobody asks, “How are you getting there?” The way the mountains are shaped, The Sea of Galilee is known for sudden storms. The disciples are getting worried. Half of them were professional fishermen. They are not strangers to storms. It was evening – about 6 P.M. Mark records that Jesus saw them toiling and rowing. He comes to them at the 4th watch – 3 A.M. to 6 A.M. He has been watching them struggle for 9 hours. Matthew 14:26 26 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled (you think), saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. The apostles were afraid, feeling abandoned, tired, and alone. Do you ever feel like this? Matthew 14:27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer (It’s a commandment); it is I; be not afraid. Elder Holland said, “Christ knows better than all others that the trials of life can be very deep. And we are not shallow people if we struggle with them.” They recognize his voice. He has already shown that he can calm storms, but he leaves this one windy and wild. Bold Peter asks, “If it really is you, ask me to come onto the water.” And He said as He always does, “Come.” As was his nature, Peter sprang over the side of the ship. Peter never would have known he could walk on water if he hadn’t taken that first step. Sometimes this decision may be mocked by those who are still “on the ship,” as Peter experienced. Matthew 14:30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. You don’t see wind, you see waves. He took His eye off of Jesus. When he doubted his faith, fear took control. WHO OR WHAT DO WE REACH OUT TO BEFORE CHRIST DURING TRIALS AT TIMES? WHY MIGHT WE DO THIS? Sometimes we prefer numbing, to the pain of growth. We can learn to do better at turning to Christ during trials. Matthew 14:31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? We are familiar with the great storms of life. When Peter was in the storm, where was the Lord? Can you imagine if The Lord had just been on the boat giving instructions? In order to come closer to Him, Peter needed to step out of the boat. What kind of, Come, step out of the boat instruction is he giving to you right now? He is not going to be far off. He is right there. We know that moment. We know what it is to doubt ourselves. And He reaches our reaching. The Savior took Peter’s hand and comforted him. He will take yours, too. Walking on water doesn’t mean you don’t have doubts. It means that when a faith crisis sends you toward the bottom of the sea, you reach back up to keep your eye on the Savior—and start walking again. Remember there is always room, especially at Church, for your questions and concerns. But don’t get stuck on the bottom of the sea. Rise up and keep your eyes on the Savior. He is where your strength to struggle will come from. Come back to the sacrament table each Sunday. Continue to share what you do know. Keep your eyes fixed on the Savior and don’t get distracted by the waves of doubt swirling around you. Make your faith about the Savior and move forward as you do so. If you fear, fall, or fumble, just find God’s hand. Reach up. Reach out. Move forward. Take it one day at a time and rise up to walk again with the help of the Savior. Raising children—now that is some major water-walking right there. When parenting and the choices your kids make pull at your heartstrings—and even pull you to the bottom of the sea—remember to do as Peter did. Don’t give up. Reach up. Find Christ and focus on His grace to give you the charity needed to maintain difficult relationships. His way is the way. When Jesus and Peter came to the boat, the storm stopped. All the disciples remembered what they had always known: He was the Son of God. I wonder if the apostles that stayed safely on the deck felt any regret. Peter grew in ways that they could only watch. He had an intimate experience with Jesus and learned things about himself and about Christ that only come from experience. So, when you are swallowing water, reach out for your Brother. He is there. He is always there. He is right beside you, walking through your faith crises, addictions, weaknesses, and family relationships. Even when you are tired from the storms of life and are worried that you don’t have enough strength, remember that you are already walking on water. Every day in many ways. You just have to stand up and do it again—with help from Christ. Hillary Weeks says, “He said“Come.” Not...“Come and you’ll see how amazing it is to walk on water.” Not...“Come and by the way you’re going to start to sink but it’s gonna work out.” Not...“Come this is going to be an amazing experience that changes your life.”Just, come. I believe we are each intended to walk on water - or experience and be part of amazing things. We are meant to “succeed gloriously,” as Elder Scott puts it. We are meant to do great things. There are talents, skills and gifts inherent in us that God wants to use for His glory. We know that. We feel that. When we stand on the edge of greatness, knowing we need to act, and we ask God for His power, strength, grace and support - He says “Come.”Not...“Come and I guarantee this is all gonna go as planned.” Not...“Come and everything will be perfect.” Not...“Come and you’re never gonna be sad, disappointed or fearful.” Just, come. So we do. Trusting that He will be there the whole time like He was for Peter. Trusting that He knows how to help us. Trusting that he will reach our reaching.

There was a certain woman. Don’t know her name. Her young daughter needed healing. Jesus went to her Gentile city. They have a reputation of being Pagan unbelievers. The woman was Greek. Not Jewish. Not part of the culture or religion. She falls at Jesus’ feet. Matthew 15: 26 But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children’s bread, and to cast it to dogs. It’s as if Jesus is asking, “What is the intention of your heart?” Compare a child to a dog and what they are capable of understanding. Are you a believer or a beggar? Do you come with faith or have you just heard that everybody else if getting something. She isn’t offended. Matthew 15:27 And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table. I will take whatever you give me. Give me the crumbs. When Peter was afraid he cried, “Lord, save me.” And this woman cries “Lord, help me.” It’s that same reaching moment. She is drowning in the situation. Matthew 15:28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.

The pool of Bethesda near Jerusalem was surrounded by the mamed, the crippled, the lame, the withered due to the legend that if the water rippled it meant it had been touched by an angel and the first person in would be healed. I love that that is the place you would find Jesus. John5: 5 And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? But he didn’t have any one to carry him to the water. He couldn’t make it on his own. John 5:8 Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. 9 And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked. Rise. Come up out of this place that you have been in. Come out of the struggle you have been buried in. Rise. Take up your bed. This isn’t your home anymore. Your old life is not who you are anymore. He was waiting for the wrong thing. The day Jesus came he was made whole. He had to wait the 38 years before that moment. Sometimes He gives us things we don’t want to go through. Because He is teaching us to prepare for something we don’t know is coming. Sometimes the waiting place is teaching us trust and patience. The miracle will come in His own time. And in His own way. The miracle will come. He doesn’t say, “Rise up your legs now work.” He says, “Rise up and be whole.” Those 38 years were part of the healing to become whole. He didn’t know it, but he was waiting on the Lord.

So Jesus finds out that John the Baptist is now preparing the way in The Spirit World. He wants to take some time by himself. They go to the desert to be alone and are greeted by 5,000 men. He doesn’t jump back in the boat. Serving helps Him. He teaches all of the people all day long. They have come a long way from the city. It is late afternoon. He asks the apostles, “What are we going to feed these people?” We know there’s 5,000 men, but that isn’t counting the women and children. Have you ever had to plan the food for a ward party? Now multiply that by a whole bunch – without planning. John 6:6 And this he said to prove him: for he himself knew what he would do. Trust God’s will. He already knew what he was going to do in that moment. He is going to ask us to recognize our potential for helping in that miracle. John 6:9 There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many? (7 represents completeness, perfection and abundance) Aren’t we all glad that boy’s mom remembered to pack his lunch? OK that boy was honestly hired by the apostles to bring their dinner with him. They had to give all that they had. John 6:10 And Jesus said, Make the men sit down. Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. Can you imagine the looks they are giving each other? “How is this going to work?” We have to let obedience lead to our belief. We have to do what the Lord asks us to do even if doesn’t make sense. John 6:11 And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would. Give thanks. Remember gratitude even if we don’t know how everything is going to work out. There is something about that that prepares for a miracle to happen. And to become whole. As much as they would. When I get a blessing from the Lord, how much do I take? We may ask, "How can I give more, do more, or be enough, when I already feel like I'm drowning?" In these moments, may we remember that Christ magnified 5 loaves of bread and 2 small fish, making it enough to feed thousands. He knows your capacity and ability, and just as He made the 5 loaves and 2 fish enough, so will He make up the difference for you! Don't attempt to be more by sure grit alone. Instead let HIM make you more! Put Him first. Spend time at His feet everyday, and just as He promised, your weakness will become His strength, your hands will become His hands, and your 5 loaves and 2 fish will truly become enough to feed thousands! IF CHRIST CAN FEED THAT MANY WITH SO LITTLE, HOW MUCH MORE CAN HE DO IN OUR LIVES WITH SMALL ACTS OF SERVICE OR SMALL AMOUNTS OF FAITH? He can strengthen us. John 6:12 When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. This part impresses me more than the fact that they multiplied the loaves and fish. I never fill up on bread. But the left overs were multiplied Christ could have made just enough bread to feed everyone and no more – specifically twelve baskets of fragments left over. He gives us much more that we even expect, as we begin to show faith in Him. (twelve is also of course a symbolic number in the Old Testament, related to the Twelve Tribes). Barley loaves and fish was the meal of the poorest people. It wasn’t the finest meal you could provide. It was the meal for the most humble. And the people were satisfied. And they were filled. We have to learn to be content with what the Lord gives us. He is going to give us in that moment what we need to be filled and we need to be content. And that is the way the Lord gives. Not just enough, but more than enough. John 6: 69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. When you are lost where can you go? When you need a rescue? When you need a miracle. When the world is crashing down. I am going to turn to Christ. Where will He be? Within reach. What does it take of us? Whatever we have. Just cry out for help. He will begin the miracle. The feeding of the thousands is a mirror of several sacred meals in scripture: the Last Supper and our modern sacrament. Each of these meals invite participants to reflect on the incorporation of eternal truths into their body and on the relationship that we have with the divine. By reverently partaking, “all are filled,” both physically and spiritually.

My heart beats with the father who brings his son to Jesus. The echo of his courage to be so vulnerable still resonates. If you can do ANYTHING, he begged, have compassion on us. And then sweet Jesus moves with that tenderness so typical of His nature and heals the boy. And then the scriptures say this: “And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead.” The father came begging for a blessing and it seemed like he got the opposite. The boy seemed dead. My favorite part of this story is the next two words in Marks version 9:27 Right after the people say “He is dead” Mark says: “but Jesus...” but Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him. but Jesus. This is my whisper all week long. Maybe it can be yours too. Especially when things seem dead. when you have been vulnerable. When you have begged for blessings. And things still seem lost. Your hope in a miracle. your future. your spirituality. your chances. your prayer that your kids come back. others may look at your situation. YOU may look at your situation and say—it looks over. It looks done. It looks dead. And then you can remember those next two words... but Jesus. Don’t forget Jesus. Sister Eubanks: When we have taken a beating like the man on the road to Jericho and been left for dead, Jesus comes along. He pours oil in our wounds. He lifts us tenderly up. He takes us to an Inn. He looks after us. Christ heals wounds. John 11:21 Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. She had faith to a certain a level. If He had been there, they knew what He could have done. And now they were past that. There were 3 ifs – twice they say, “If you had been there he would not have died.” Jesus responds “If you would believe you would see the glory of God.” And Jesus must have thought, “I love what you know about me so far. Wait until you see what I am about to show you in your life.” 22 But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. 23 Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. 24 Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. 25 Jesus said unto her, I am (and always will be) the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? 27 She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world. John11: 39 Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days. 40 Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God? Grasp onto belief. There will be moments of doubt – even when Jesus is about to move in our lives. She shows faith even with limited understanding. (I always ask this) Have you experienced moments of great darkness? Whether it comes from pain or from depression or a situation that is bigger than you can overcome? Do you ever have a moment when Jesus has to call you out of that place? Loose her. And help her let go of this that she is carrying. Come out of that dark place. Come out of there. I have people here who can help unbind you from that dark place. Prayer and gratitude can help loose us and prepare us for a miracle. Mary had to be called out of the house. She said one thing and sobbed the entire time. Have you had prayers like that? You are angry with Him or don’t understand or feel like he is not listening. All of those things are going through Mary’s heart and she still gets to experience the miracle. Mark 9:24 Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief. What in your life needs to be unbound and let go so you can walk more fully alive? When are you most vulnerable to temptation? I always look ahead to the thing that I don’t want to happen that could be the worst thing. Lazarus dying was the worst day. And yet they overcame that. You will wake up the next day. Christ will be there and it will be okay. This is why He came. 2 Corinthians 12:9 My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may restupon me. His Grace is made perfect in our weakness. Why did Christ wait to visit Lazarus? Out of love for them – He had something greater to show them. He can overcome anything – even cultural traditions. He waited on purpose. It hurt them. He grieved with them. He grieves with us while we wait. He was preparing them to wait 3 days for him, because Lazarus was four. Lazarus is the moment the Pharisees say, “Something has to be done.” People either believe or completely turn away from Him in that moment. There will be times in our lives when we think we know Jesus well. Where we think we know how He works in our lives. We have experienced miracles. What the story of Lazurus teaches us is that we will come to know Jesus in a way we didn’t know Him before. No matter how dark a situation seems. No matter how hopeless or dark the trials we may face, because of Jesus we can come forth out of darkness, out of that place you have been in. You can, because of Him.

The Triumphal entry. The only planned public demonstration. They expected a white horse and armor to bring back the kingdom and it wasn’t any of that. He comes on the back of a barnyard donkey – a symbol of peace (prophesied in Zechariah). Clothes were put in the path. Hosannah is a shout that was reserved for the Days of the Jubilee. People asked people to stop shouting.They felt like it was blasphemous. That was a shout reserved only for God. All of the city is like, “Who is this?” “This is Jesus.” The crowd is about 2 million people: including the Jews who lived in Jerusalem, the crowd from Galilee, and the people who saw him raise Lazarus from the dead. My brain wants to skip from the triumphal entry to the resurrection. It makes me so sad. For Judas is was 30 pieces of silver(the price of a slave). What would get me? (The thing I thought I could get away with). Judas was stealing before he ever betrayed Christ. A betrayal doesn’t mean your relationship with Jesus is over.

So the Passover was pointing ahead to the Lamb of God. And The Lord’s Supper announces that this work has been accomplished. He could have said to Judas, “You probably shouldn’t come.” But that is not who Jesus is. It doesn’t matter what battles you are facing in your heart. It doesn’t matter what doubt is raging. There is a place at his table for you. The Passover dinner in the upper room is mentioned in all four Gospels, but nothing is said of the main course. The main part of a Pass Over meal would be lamb. I don’t think it’s a coincidence. He was the Lamb.

Let me just start with washing the dirtiest parts of you. Peter isn’t comfortable with the Savior washing his feet and then he wants Him to wash his whole body. I love the sacrament. It’s the one perfect thing we do each week. It’s perfect because the Priests offer the prayer perfectly. I am so grateful they are willing to do that. I’m grateful they are willing to say it again when they need to. That matters. Those faithful Priests are the reason we get to do at least one perfect thing each week. I imagine myself handing my backpack over to the Savior. He willingly takes it, no matter how heavy it has gotten during the week and He turns the backpack upside down, dumping out all the rocks, the pebbles – even wiping out the dust so the pack is totally clean again. I can put it on again and it is light and easy to carry. The Savior is known by many names. Over a hundred different names just in the Book of Mormon alone. Holy One Prince of Peace Lamb of God Author and finisher of our faith Creator Advocate Exemplar Rock The Good Shepherd Redeemer Mediator Second Comforter Perhaps we could take a step in that direction today and consider taking one of those names or attributes and putting it right next to ours today and practice living that way. “We can make a conscious effort each week to prepare for the sacrament by taking some time to prayerfully consider where we most need to improve. We could then bring a sacrifice of at least one thing that keeps us from being like Jesus Christ to the sacrament altar, pleading in faith for help, asking for necessary spiritual gifts, and covenanting to improve during the coming week. As we do so, the Holy Ghost will come into our lives to a greater degree, and we will have additional strength to overcome our imperfections.” Elder Ashton Today, you will walk out of church with a clean, empty backpack. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if it was still empty next week when we came to church again, but I’m afraid I already know mine won’t be and yours might not be either. And really that’s not the goal. The Lord knows our backpacks will fill up this week – we are going to make mistakes and do things we wish we hadn’t, even when we are trying our hardest to be good. The point is to keep coming back and allowing the Savior to empty and clean it for us. We have an eye witness account from the woman with the alabaster box, from the people of Jerusalem, from The Upper Room, from Peter specifically. And then the disciples were asleep.

The only eye witness account we have is from the Angel who came to strengthen Jesus. We don’t know the agony, but we know the why – “For God so loved the World.” How does this moment give your strength during dark and lonely times?

Come Follow Me Matthew 6-9, Mark 2-5

Sermon on the Mount continues. I wish we had the same view of the Sea of Galilee. He is focused on three things. The way the Jews worshiped was focused on giving service, fasting, and praying. Last week focused on outward motions to what your heart is doing. It is true that in some cases it would be better to do the right thing in the wrong way or out of the wrong motive than to do the wrong thing, but Jesus’ point is clear: God cares about how we do our good works, and with what motive we do them. Motivation counts. You are the one that needs it, not necessarily for people to see you doing it. #1 Matthew 6:2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. I spent a lot of time as child concerned about this. My patriarchal blessing even mentions many of my blessings will be stored in heaven. I sometimes wish I had access sooner. As a child I thought this next part referred to taking the sacrament. #2 Matthew 6:3 But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: 4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. What does doing righteous acts in secret suggest about a person’s motivation for doing them? (He or she wants to please Heavenly Father and serve others rather than seek attention from others.) Much like washing our hands, giving to the poor (and other good works) should some day be so habitual that they almost do not even register with us consciously. In such an ideal, we do not have to actively think about doing good deeds, we just do them. If you are doing faithful actions for the praise of others, you receive the reward of social praise and acceptance. Your desires are paid in full. By contrast, if we do faithful actions for God, they are true acts of consecrating our agency over to God, laying our “whole souls as an offering unto him.” We can then receive the enduring blessings of sanctification here and throughout the eternities. Portions of this may occur in this life, or the next – and it may happen bit by bit. President Benson:“When we put God first, all other things fall into their proper place or drop out of our lives. Our love of the Lord will govern the claims for our affection, the demands on our time, the interests we pursue, and the order of our priorities. #3 Matthew6:6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. The specific ancient Greek word for closet was used for an inner chamber. It is a room where you would be able to be solitary. It is a store room where treasure was kept. There are treasures awaiting us in prayer. “True prayer is measured by weight and not by length.” What might make for a powerful prayer? How would you define that? The Lord’s warning against “vain repetitions” is not necessarily a prohibition against using the same or similar words each time we pray. The Lord is also warning against prayers that are mechanical, shallow, or empty. Our prayers should be humble, heartfelt, and expressed with faith. How could we improve our prayers? Is there is a time, place, or bodily position where you are most able to focus? Some people find it very helpful to kneel in their own quiet room while praying – which has been connected to the idea of kneeling before a King, Christ’s prayer in Gethsemane. There appears to be more than one position of prayer in the Bible – bowed heads (Exodus 12:27), falling to the ground (Job 1:20), standing (2 Chronicles 20:19), and kneeling (Psalm 95:6), as examples. It shows our trust to Heavenly Father and explicitly acknowledges that we recognize that we cannot do this on our own, that we have to go for Him for everything. We even recognize that our most basic daily needs are dependent on Him. Why does the Lord’s Prayer include the specific items Jesus mentions? He is Lord of all. It calls to mind Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s teaching that “This is a paradox of man: compared to God, man is nothing; yet we are everything to God.” Thy kingdom come, thy will be done. But if not… we must bend our will to our Father in Heaven. The only thing purely our own to give is our will. Neil L. Anderson said, “The surrender of our will to God’s will is in fact not surrender at all, but the beginning of a glorious victory.” #5Matthew6:11 11 Give us this day our daily bread. He isn’t asking for riches. Just as our physical body needs daily nourishment, so does our Spirit. Lead us not into temptation. God doesn’t lead us into temptation. Instead he allows us to be tempted. Pray to be given a way out. Sometimes he does give us more than we can handle, so that we will rely on Him. • Give us this day our daily bread: We acknowledge our constant need for Him physically. • Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors: We acknowledge that, having imperfectly dealt with temptation (we’re going to talk about judging in a moment), we will need forgiveness – and so do other human beings. We commit to a life of patience, charity, and grace for others and ourselves. • Lead us not into temptation: We acknowledge our own limitations as humans, and constant need for him spiritually. Are we really supposed to not give a single thought for tomorrow? Should I abandon my savings plan? Do not be extremely stressed out over tomorrow.” You should plan for the future, but you need to place ultimate trust in God. Don’t make yourself sick over it. What does it mean that “sufficient to the day is the evil thereof”? Are days evil? What is the message here for us? Evil means sin, especially wickedness, but it can also mean trouble or misfortune. It is actually translated “malice”, the intent to do harm. To me this suggests a poetic expression rather than literally saying a day can sin – the suggestion here is that a day has “malice” towards you, meaning a day is going to cause you trouble. Tomorrow is going to have plenty of troubles – do not add onto your troubles by being stressed out about them before the day even gets here. What did the Savior teach about judging? #6 What do you think it means to judge righteously (observe to avoid & improve) You are supposed to have an opinion. You should recognize swine, dogs, and false prophets. But don’t pass a verdict or condemn somebody. True to the Faith: “While it is true that you should not condemn others or judge them unrighteously, you will need to make judgments of ideas, situations, and people throughout your life. “Judgment is an important use of your agency and requires great care, especially when you make judgments about other people. All your judgments must be guided by righteous standards. Remember that only God, who knows each individual’s heart, can make final judgments of individuals. As much as you can, judge people’s situations rather than judging the people themselves. Whenever possible, refrain from making judgments until you have an adequate knowledge of the facts. Always be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, who can guide your decisions. Sometimes people feel that it is wrong to judge others in any way. While it is true that you should not condemn others or judge them unrighteously, you will need to make judgments of ideas, situations, and people throughout your life. “Judgment is an important use of your agency and requires great care, especially when you make judgments about other people. All your judgments must be guided by righteous standards. Remember that only God, who knows each individual’s heart, can make final judgments of individuals. As much as you can, judge people’s situations rather than judging the people themselves. Whenever possible, refrain from making judgments until you have an adequate knowledge of the facts. Always be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, who can guide your decisions.” Usually, judgments are based on false assumptions. Both the assumptions as well as the accusations can lead to anger and resentment. Judging a spouse harshly is usually an indication that something is amiss in our own lives. (an Ensign article offers this advice) Instead, we should ask ourselves, Why does this behavior or attitude of my spouse bother me so much? The answer to this question will probably help us discover what we can do to change. Once we have “cast out the beam” from our own eyes, we will be less likely to see faults in a spouse. Keep the lines of communication open. Couples who regularly talk to each other are less likely to have serious misunderstandings. Have realistic expectations for your spouse. Give your spouse the benefit of the doubt. Remember that people’s strengths and weaknesses differ. Everyone grows at his or her own rate. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf “This business of beams and motes seems to be closely related to our inability to see ourselves clearly. I’m not sure why we are able to diagnose and recommend remedies for other people’s ills so well, while we often have difficulty seeing our own” If we focus on removing our own sins and weaknesses, then we will be less likely to judge others unrighteously. (Looking through windows) What can we learn from the Wise man who built his house upon the rock? If we hear and act on the Lord’s teachings, then He will strengthen us to endure our trials. If we hear the Lord’s teachings but do not follow them, then we will not have the support we need when trials come. President Dallin H. Oaks “There are two kinds of judging: final judgments, which we are forbidden to make, and intermediate judgments, which we are directed to make, but upon righteous principles. Why did the Savior command that we not judge final judgments? I believe this commandment was given because we presume to make final judgments whenever we proclaim that any particular person is going to hell (or to heaven) for a particular act or as of a particular time. We all make judgments in choosing our friends, in choosing how we will spend our time and our money, and, of course, in choosing an eternal companion. Some of these intermediate judgments are surely among those the Savior referenced when He taught that ‘the weightier matters of the law’ include judgment. “In the intermediate judgments we must make, we should take care to judge righteously. We should seek the guidance of the Spirit in our decisions. We should limit our judgments to our own stewardships. Whenever possible we should refrain from judging people until we have an adequate knowledge of the facts. So far as possible, we should judge circumstances rather than people. In all our judgments we should apply righteous standards. And, in all of this we must remember the command to forgive.” Elder M. Russell Ballard “When we think of false prophets and false teachers, we tend to think of those who espouse an obviously false doctrine or presume to have authority to teach the true gospel of Christ according to their own interpretation. We often assume that such individuals are associated with small radical groups on the fringes of society. However, I reiterate: there are false prophets and false teachers who have or at least claim to have membership in the Church. There are those who, without authority, claim Church endorsement to their products and practices. Beware of such. “Beware of those who speak and publish in opposition to God’s true prophets and who actively proselyte others with reckless disregard for the eternal well-being of those whom they seduce” What “pearls” should we not be casting before swine, and why? Many of the apostles were martyred. This teaching may partially reflect the practical need for the disciples to exercise caution in who they spoke to and how fully they explained their new faith. Part of discernment is making sure that, for honest people who are sincerely curious, we respond straightforwardly and do it in a way that truly answers all their questions fully and tries to help bridge gulfs of misunderstanding – but for people who are simply being bigoted or aggressive for its own sake, that we may need to withdraw and say, “this is clearly not a worthwhile dialogue.” Or perhaps the Spirit can tell us a better way to engage. Instagram Why does Christ say, “ask and it shall be given you” if we do not always receive what we pray for? Heavenly Father knows our needs before we pray. We can follow Jesus Christ’s example by praying for Heavenly Father’s will to be accomplished. We can receive Heavenly Father’s forgiveness as we choose to forgive others. Prayer can provide us strength to resist temptations. #4Why do we need to ask Heavenly Father for the things we need if He already knows our needs? There are blessings conditional on us asking for them. He is not in the business of spoiling us, He is in the business of exalting us. The Lord needs to see that we are willing to put forth the effort and ask. Don’t just expect answers. Bednar: “I testify that the tender mercies of the Lord are real and that they do not occur randomly or merely by coincidence. Often, The Lord’s timing of his tender mercies helps us to both discern and acknowledge them.” If we ask in accordance with His will we will receive answers. It is possible, given the context of the Sermon on the Mount and the recurring message of Christ about spiritual light and salvation, that what this is actually referring to is not asking for ANYTHING but asking for faith in Christ and a testimony of the Atonement. Or for help in discernment. Elder Donald L. Hallstrom taught, “Often we describe a miracle as being healed without a full explanation by medical science or as avoiding catastrophic danger by heeding a clear prompting. However, defining a miracle as “a beneficial event brought about through divine power that mortals do not understand”2gives an expanded perspective into matters more eternal in nature. This definition also allows us to contemplate the vital role of faith in the receipt of a miracle. King Nebuchadnezzar demanded that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego worship the golden image he set up as a god, threatening, “If ye worship not, ye shall be cast … into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.” Then he taunted them with “Who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?”6 These three devout disciples said: “If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace. … But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods.”7 They possessed full confidence that God could save them, “but if not,” they had complete faith in His plan. Similarly, Elder David A. Bednar once asked a young man who had requested a priesthood blessing, “If it is the will of our Heavenly Father that you are transferred by death in your youth to the spirit world to continue your ministry, do you have the faith to submit to His will and not be healed?”8 Do we have the faith “not [to] be healed” from our earthly afflictions so we might be healed eternally? A critical question to ponder is “Where do we place our faith?” Is our faith focused on simply wanting to be relieved of pain and suffering, or is it firmly centered on God the Father and His holy plan and in Jesus the Christ and His Atonement? Faith in the Father and the Son allows us to understand and accept Their will as we prepare for eternity. Today I testify of miracles. Being a child of God is a miracle.9 Receiving a body in His image and likeness is a miracle.10 The gift of a Savior is a miracle.11 The Atonement of Jesus Christ is a miracle.12 The potential for eternal life is a miracle.13 While it is good to pray for and work for physical protection and healing during our mortal existence, our supreme focus should be on the spiritual miracles that are available to all of God’s children. No matter our ethnicity, no matter our nationality, no matter what we have done if we repent, no matter what may have been done to us—all of us have equal access to these miracles. We are living a miracle, and further miracles lie ahead. If you knew that the Savior were coming to visit your city or town today, whom would you bring to Him to be healed? Why? (prayer roll) It’s story time. Most every Jew under Roman occupation felt a reason to hate this centurion, yet he came to a Jewish teacher for help on behalf of his servant. This centurion had an unusual attitude towards his slave. Under Roman law a master had the right to kill his slave, and it was expected that he would do so if the slave became ill or injured to the point where he could no longer work.The centurion did not make a casual request. Matthew describes him as pleading with Jesus on behalf of his servant. He seeks a cure, but does not prescribe to the Lord how or where he shall work it; in fact, he does not put his request into words, but pleads the case, and lets the sorrow speak. And Jesus said, “I will come and heal him.” The centurion said, “Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” It was completely against Jewish custom for a Jew to enter a Gentiles’ house; yet it was not against God’s law. centurion also showed great sensitivity to Jesus, in that he wanted to spare Jesus the awkward challenge of whether or not to enter a Gentile’s house – as well as the time and trouble of travel. He didn’t know Jesus well enough to know that He would not feel awkward in the least; but his consideration of Jesus in this situation was impressive. The centurion fully understood that Jesus’ healing power was not some sort of magic trick that required the magician’s presence. Instead he knew Jesus had true authority, and could command things to be done and completed outside His immediate presence. He understood that Jesus can heal with His word just as easily as with a touch. When Jesus heard it, He marveled, and said to those who followed, “Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel! Now when Jesus had come into Peter’s house, He saw his wife’s mother lying sick with a fever. So He touched her hand, and the fever left her. And she arose and served them. This clearly establishes the fact that Peter was married. Her sickness was much less severe than the leper, yet Jesus still cared for her. Jesus cares for smaller problems also. Then another of His “disciples” said to Him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” But Jesus said to him, “Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.” Actually, this man did not ask for permission to dig a grave for his deceased father. He wanted to remain in his father’s house and care for him until the father died. This was obviously an indefinite period, which could drag on and on. The man wanted to follow Jesus, but not just yet. He knew it was good and that he should do it, but he felt there was a good reason why he could not do it now. What if you could spend a day in the life of the Savior? In the village of Capernaum in Galilee, there was a paralyzed man. Four men carried this man to the house where Jesus was. The house was so crowded that they could not enter it, they disassembled part of the roof of the house and lowered the man into the Savior’s presence. Mark 2:5-7 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. (that’s not why we brought him – he’s paralyzed) 6 But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, 7 Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only? 8 And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts? 9 Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? 10 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) 11 I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house. 12 And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion. Jesus Christ has the power to heal us spiritually and physically. I love that he discerned their hearts. The scribes were angered by His claim to grant forgiveness for sins. The scribes were given undeniable evidence that Jesus Christ had power to heal the sick and they heard Him testify that He could forgive sins. However, there is no indication that these men approached Jesus thereafter and sought forgiveness for their own sins. I have always missed the point. I thought this was about – who has sinned – the boy or his parents. Palsy wasn’t about sin. No. Christ forgave his sins because , as a pointed and dramatic witness that the power of God was resident in him, Jesus took (perhaps sought) this appropriate occasion to forgive sins. Being then called in question by the scripturalists who knew (and that rightly) that the false assumption of the power to forgive sins was blasphemy, Jesus did what no imposter could have done—he proved his divine power by healing the forgiven man. ‘Does it require more power to forgive sins than to make the sick rise up and walk?’ there could be only one answer! They are as one; he that can do the one, can do the other. Jairus asks the Savior to heal his dying daughter. On a narrow street, crowded shoulder to shoulder a woman grabs the edge of his robe. She is “unclean” because of her issue of blood. She has lived alone for 12 years. She secretly sits by the roadside. She doesn’t want to make a scene. And Jesus makes a scene. He stops what he is doing and asks, “Who touched me?” He already knows. He is the 911 emergency ambulance and instead He kneels and takes her by the hand and calls her daughter – a word of great tenderness in that time period. You might feel that you are being overlooked by everyone else. Just know that you are being taken care of by Him. The servant tells them Jairus’ daughter has died. Jesus knows Jairus’ heart and tells him, “Be not afraid. Only believe.” Jairus’ faith increased after watching the woman stricken for 12 years be healed to the level it would need to be for his daughter. They get to the house and the daughter has died. He takes her by the hand and raises her from the dead. Two blind men follow him. He heals them. Then a dumb man came and he healed him. Which of those things do you think were on his list to do that day? These are compassionate detours. Do you have room in your schedule to be moved with compassion? Which can be life changing for people Why would the Pharisees consider it a violation of God’s laws to pluck corn or heal someone on the Sabbath? Jewish teachers added their own rules and interpretations, called the oral law or tradition, to the law of Moses. These added rules were intended to prevent violation of God’s law, but they also prevented some people from understanding the true purpose of certain commandments, including the command to keep the Sabbath day holy. We can keep the Sabbath day holy by glorifying God and doing good works. I gave a talk in sacrament meeting on this topic, but I didn’t share this. Elder Mark E. Peterson “Our observance or nonobservance of the Sabbath is an unerring measure of our attitude toward the Lord personally and toward his suffering in Gethsemane, his death on the cross, and his resurrection from the dead.” What sign will you give to the Lord to show your love for Him? And then there is the man people hear crying at night and cutting himself in the tombs – where no one is supposed to be. It is what Jesus does. He meets us where we are. Jesus looks past all of the outside appearance and asks, “What is your name?” The answer, “Legion” – meaning 6,000 armed and strong warriors of evil. Christ is mightier than any of those things. And there are pigs and a cliff. And then the man is clothed. Did Jesus bring the clothes? And he just wants to sit at Jesus’ feet. He tells him “Go home to your friends. Tell them what great thing the Lord has done for thee.” And you will remain healed if you do that. The miracle is renewed in us and everyone who hears it. The power of one person with a testimony of Christ. He tells everyone. When Christ comes back, the whole town is waiting for Him because of that one. The most unlikely man to be the missionary. He changed 100s of people. Fear reigned and now hope. The harvest is plenteous, but the laborers are few. Pray ye the Lord of the harvest will send laborers. The harvest is people. The laborers are me and you. This week, I challenge you to choose which of the Lord’s Sermon on the Mount admonitions you can apply in your daily life. Next week, choose another and continue until you have considered each for a week. We will become more like Christ. Take a compassionate detour.

Come Follow Me Matthew 3-4: Mark 1; Luke 3-5

What is something you did because of what you read in the New Testament this week? One of the themes in Matthew is that Jesus Christ fulfilled ancient prophecies. Which Old Testament prophet wrote about John the Baptist? (Isaiah taught he would-Prepare the way of the Lord. Under the law of Moses, the high priest functioned as the presiding officer of the Aaronic Priesthood and political head of the nation of Israel. However, by the time of the Savior’s ministry, the office of high priest had become corrupted. Rather than being selected by God, high priests were chosen by men such as Herod and other Roman officials. Who did God speak to instead of the high priests?(John the son of Zacharias - John the Baptist.) Talking about the Kingdom of God coming to the earth (which Matthew does 33 times), because of the Romans ruling over all of the Jewish people, they were looking for a rebellion. They wanted someone to deliver them out of that situation. John’s was not a call to armed resistance, but to repentance. There was nothing negative or controversial in what he was teaching. He baptized people. He taught people to confess their sins. He called people to repent. (and they did!) Repent in Greek means to turn back or again. Every time we pray we turn to Christ. The sign for change. He taught people that a time of judgment was coming. He taught that the One coming after him was greater than him and would baptize with the Holy Ghost. How did this prepare the way of the Lord? What can we do to “prepare … the way of the Lord” in our lives? Why did John call the Pharisees and Sadducees viper. It is the most common poisonous snake in Israel. Vipers are active at night and typically hunt by hiding and then sneaking up on their prey. When they feel threatened, vipers will coil their body, hiss, and strike at their opponents. The Pharisees and Sadducees felt threatened by John, as he drew many people away from their evil influence and false teachings. In John’s day some people believed that because they were descendants of Abraham, they were better or more loved by God than non-Israelites. John set them straight. John was really, really good at what he was sent to earth to do. He had a VERY special mission. John prepared that way. He was baptizing people from all over, and right when he finally introduced the Messiah, some of the future Twelve Apostles began following Jesus. Why? Because John had prepared them. John was so effective, and so good at proclaiming the message he needed to, that Jewish leaders were sending Pharisees and Sadducees to find out more about him. And when they came, he testified to them in a bold way. They had now also received the message from one sent from God. When opposition came, he handled it and kept moving forward. He was also humble. The scriptures mention what he wore and ate. Camel’s hair, a leather girdle, and he ate locusts and wild honey. These were typical of a common Israelite - nothing fancy or to show that he had wealth and prestige. He didn’t need it and he didn’t require it. His message didn’t need a title or esteem to give it the proper weight. He had God behind him, he didn’t need the prestige of man. After all of his tireless labor to spread the message, after all the opposition that came from the leaders in Jerusalem, after all the highs and lows… John FINALLY had that moment when he introduced Jesus Christ to those that were waiting for Him. “Behold the Lamb of God.” The moment he had prepared his whole life for had come. And what happened? All those who had been following John, turned and followed Christ. Christ chose to be baptized in the Jordan River near the Dead Sea which is 13,000 feet below sea level – the lowest spot on planet earth. “I will descend below all things. All things that are dead can come alive again.” Why was John initially reluctant to baptize the Savior? (He knew that Jesus’s position and authority were greater than his own.) Gives me comfort I’m not the only one who feels unqualified in my calling. why did Jesus say He needed to be baptized? (“To fulfil all righteousness.” MTC painting What do you think this phrase means? #1 2 Nephi 31:5–12 And now, if the Lamb of God, he being holy, should have need to be baptized by water, to fulfil all righteousness, O then, how much more need have we, being unholy, to be baptized, yea, even by water! 6 And now, I would ask of you, my beloved brethren, wherein the Lamb of God did fulfil all righteousness in being baptized by water? 7 Know ye not that he was holy? But notwithstanding he being holy, he showeth unto the children of men that, according to the flesh he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments. 8 Wherefore, after he was baptized with water the Holy Ghost descended upon him in the form of a dove. 9 And again, it showeth unto the children of men the straitness of the path, and the narrowness of the gate, by which they should enter, he having set the example before them. 10 And he said unto the children of men: Follow thou me. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, can we follow Jesus save we shall be willing to keep the commandments of the Father? 11 And the Father said: Repent ye, repent ye, and be baptized in the name of my Beloved Son. 12 And also, the voice of the Son came unto me, saying: He that is baptized in my name, to him will the Father give the Holy Ghost, like unto me; wherefore, follow me, and do the things which ye have seen me do. Any time Heavenly Father speaks, it is to testify of the Savior. “This is my Beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.” He hadn’t even begun his ministry and Heavenly Father fully loved and was well pleased because of his relationship with Him and not anything that he has done. The Holy Ghost did not actually transform into a dove. Rather, the dove was a sign or symbol that the Holy Ghost had descended upon Jesus.) Joseph Smith taught:“The sign of the dove was instituted before the creation of the world, a witness for the Holy Ghost, and the devil cannot come in the sign of a dove. The Holy Ghost is a personage, and is in the form of a personage. It does not confine itself to the form of the dove, but in sign of the dove. The Holy Ghost cannot be transformed into a dove; but the sign of a dove was given to John to signify the truth of the deed, as the dove is an emblem or token of truth and innocence Elder David A. Bednar “We are commanded and instructed to so live that our fallen nature is changed through the sanctifying power of the Holy Ghost. President Marion G. Romney taught that the baptism of fire by the Holy Ghost ‘converts [us] from carnality to spirituality. It cleanses, heals, and purifies the soul. … Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance, and water baptism are all preliminary and prerequisite to it, but [the baptism of fire] is the consummation. To receive [this baptism of fire] is to have one’s garments washed in the atoning blood of Jesus Christ’ Elder Robert D. Hales taught:“When we understand our baptismal covenant and the gift of the Holy Ghost, it will change our lives and will establish our total allegiance to the kingdom of God. … Entering into the kingdom of God is so important that Jesus was baptized to show us ‘the straitness of the path’ “As we follow the example of Jesus, we, too, demonstrate that we will repent and be obedient in keeping the commandments of our Father in Heaven. We humble ourselves with a broken heart and a contrite spirit as we recognize our sins and seek forgiveness of our trespasses. We covenant that we are willing to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ and always remember Him. … “By choosing to be in [God’s] kingdom, we separate—not isolate—ourselves from the world. Our thoughts will be pure, our language clean. The movies and television we watch, the music we listen to, the books, magazines, and newspapers we read will be uplifting. We will choose friends who encourage our eternal goals, and we will treat others with kindness. We will shun the vices of immorality. Our Sunday activities will reflect the commandment of God to remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy. We will follow the example of Jesus Christ in the way we treat others. We will live to be worthy to enter the house of the Lord (2000). Matthew’s genealogy of Jesus Christ reveals the Savior’s prophetic and divine right to reign on earth. Matthew’s major themes is: Jesus Christ came to establish the kingdom of heaven on earth. Matthew refers to Jesus as “Christ” The Greek title Christ and the Hebrew title Messiah are synonymous, meaning “Anointed One.” In Old Testament times, prophets, priests, and kings were anointed to fulfill their roles and responsibilities Therefore, the term Christ helped Matthew’s readers to understand the Savior’s divine role. The anointing of prophets, priests, and kings foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ—the great Prophet, Priest, and King. Matthew’s audience are the Jews. He was the scriptorian (wouldn’t that be nice! I know some of you are) He was teaching the Jews who were also familiar with the ancient text. He was a tax collector. The Jews generally hated publicans and viewed them as outcasts, sinners, and even traitors to the nation of Israel.. He was one of the original 12 apostles. Mark was the first Gospel ever written. He was a teenager when he first heard Jesus preach. He was an interpreter for Peter. He learned all of the stories from Peter. He was also a companion of Paul. They often use his Mom’s house for a gathering place – such as the Last Supper. His audience was the Gentiles. He teaches at a fast-pace, emphasizing the Savior’s divinity by focusing on His works and miracles. His attention was to prove he was the Son of God acting and living among men. Mark likely wrote his account based on what he learned from the Apostle Peter. Luke was a doctor. Taught by Paul and with Paul. He may not have lived at the time of Christ, but interviewed eye witness accounts – I want that job! The scribes were considered experts in the law of Moses. When they preached they often quoted former authorities in the law. In contrast, Jesus spoke with the power and authority of His Father and as the great Jehovah who gave the law of Moses. The Savior healed Simon Peter’s mother-in-law of a fever, healed many others who were sick, and cast out many devils.-who recognized his authority [Joseph Smith] stated, ‘Wicked spirits have their bounds, limits, and laws by which they are governed’ [in History of the Church, 4:576]. So Satan and his angels are not all-powerful. … “… Satan’s efforts can be thwarted by all who come unto Christ by obedience to the covenants and ordinances of the gospel” What can we do to receive greater power to resist the devil? How did the people responded after seeing Jesus cast the unclean spirit out of the man. (His fame spread – lots of followers) How would having leprosy impact your life? Leprosy is a chronic disease that attacks skin, nerves, eyes, bones, and limbs. Left untreated, it leads to a painful death. In ancient times, it was believed that anyone who came in contact with lepers would contract the disease. To protect a community’s health and well-being, lepers were forced to live outside the town. Passing through a room would cause it to be unclean. It was called the living death. You had to stay 6 feet away unless the wind was blowing. The law required them to call out “Unclean!” to warn anyone approaching them. How did the leper have the courage to approach the Savior? The job of the priest was to – “Declare them whole or healed.” That didn’t happen.He could have had him wash 7 times, but he doesn’t. He chooses to touch him. #2 Mark 1:40And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. How did the leper show his faith in Jesus Christ? “if thou wilt” #3Mark 1:41–42 41 And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean. 42 And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was cleansed. What impresses you about how the Savior responded to the man’s pleading? Leprosy can be likened to sin.Elder Bruce R. McConkie “Leprosy in biblical times, in addition to its desolating physical effects, was looked upon as the symbol of sin and uncleanness, signifying that as this evil disease ate away and destroyed the physical body, so sin eats away and corrupts the spiritual side of man” Mark 1:40-42And there came a sinner to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. 41 And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean. 42 And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the sin departed from him, and he was cleansed. The law of Moses required those healed of leprosy to show themselves to a temple priest and offer a sacrifice. What did the man do after the Savior warned Him against telling others? #4Mark1:44 And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. 45 But he went out, and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places: and they came to him from every quarter. Who are the people who are ostracized in your family or friends? How can you be moved with compassion toward them. What can you do to help the Savior touch their life? Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught: “‘If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.’ … “The temptation is not in the eating. … The temptation, at least the part I wish to focus on, is to do it this way, to get his bread—his physical satisfaction, relief for his human appetite—the easy way, by abuse of power and without a willingness to wait for the right time and the right way. … “‘If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down’ from the pinnacle of this temple. … “The temptation here is even more subtle than the first. It is a temptation of the spirit, of a private hunger more real than the need for bread. Would God save him? … Why not get spiritual confirmation, obtain a loyal congregation, and answer this Imp who heckles—all with one appeal to God’s power? … “But Jesus refuses the temptation of the spirit. Denial and restraint are also part of divine preparation. … Even the Son of God must wait. The Redeemer who would never bestow cheap grace on others was not likely to ask for any himself. … “… ‘All these things will I give thee, if thou will fall down and worship me.’ “Satan … [asks], ‘What is your price? Cheap bread you resist. Tawdry Messianic drama you resist, but no man can resist this world’s wealth. Name your price.’ Satan is proceeding under his first article of faithlessness—the unequivocal belief that you can buy anything in this world for money. “Jesus will one day rule the world. He will govern every principality and power in it. He will be King of Kings and Lord of Lords. But not this way”1984). If we follow the Savior’s example, we can overcome temptation. When we fast and pray, we have greater spiritual strength to overcome temptation. Who else overcame Satan’s temptations? Joseph overcame Satan’s temptation with Potiphar’s wife. 2Nephi 4:17 O bwretched man that I am! Yea, my heart csorroweth because of my flesh; my soul grieveth because of mine iniquities. 18 I am encompassed about, because of the temptations and the sins which do so easily abeset me. Moses after the burning bush Satan came tempting him Eve and the serpent Mists of darkness What do we learn about Christ from this story? and What do we learn about Satan? (on board) #5How can we benefit from scriptural knowledge during a time of temptation? What else could we do to help us overcome temptations? Why was it necessary for the Savior to experience temptation? Why is it important for us to understand that Jesus Christ experienced the same kinds of temptations we face today? How can we better apply the Savior’s example when facing temptation? What can we do now to be better prepared for temptation when it comes? broken, bruised, captive, poor, and blind (on the board). Ponder a time when one or more of these words may have described how you felt about yourself After Jesus returned from the wilderness, He began to preach in the synagogues in Galilee.Luke 4:32 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with apower. #6What verses can you share from these chapters that helped you feel that doctrinal power for yourself? He returned to His hometown of Nazareth. (Is not this Joseph’s Son) He stood in a synagogue and read from the book of Isaiah. What did Jesus testify of to the people of His hometown of Nazareth? Jesus is the Messiah who was sent to heal the brokenhearted and deliver those who are spiritually captive. #7 What experiences have you had that have shown you that Jesus Christ continues to heal and deliver us in our day? How did the people react to Jesus’s declaration? Jesus knew that the people in Nazareth would challenge Him to prove He was the Messiah by repeating the miracles He had performed in Capernaum. Jesus performed very few miracles in Nazareth because the people there generally lacked faith in Him. When we demonstrate our faith in Jesus Christ, we can see miracles occur. When have you been asked to do something without knowing all the reasons for doing it? (on board) Peter (Simon’s boat is empty. They are washing nets. Christ asks him to “thrust out a little from the land. He preaches to the people from the boat. When He finished He told Peter “Launch out into the deep” and catch fish. Simon says, “We have toiled all night. At thy word I will.” #8Would anyone like to share an experience in which they demonstrated their faith in divine guidance, despite not having a complete understanding. What was the result when you exercised your faith? Elder Richard G. Scott said: “This life is an experience in profound trust—trust in Jesus Christ, trust in His teachings, trust in our capacity as led by the Holy Spirit to obey those teachings for happiness now and for a purposeful, supremely happy eternal existence. To trust means to obey willingly without knowing the end from the beginning. Just as the fishermen “forsook all” to follow Jesus Christ, there are things we have to forsake to become His disciples. Peter, Andrew, James, and John straight way left their nets. #9How has your life changed as you have chosen to forsake all to follow the Savior. (continual process – not just something you do once and get baptized) Next week’s focus is on being born again.