tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34660708294409147622024-03-21T18:27:17.292-07:00A Word For The Hesitant MissionaryJamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.comBlogger135125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-87011137627461518582014-05-23T09:27:00.001-07:002014-05-23T09:28:17.538-07:00Gratitude<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"We sometimes think that being grateful is what we do <i>after</i> our
problems are solved, but how terribly shortsighted that is. How much of
life do we miss by waiting to see the rainbow before thanking God that
there is rain?"</div>
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Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-22126318653834341232014-05-23T09:20:00.000-07:002014-05-23T09:20:34.480-07:00Hump Day<div style="text-align: center;">
This is a letter I wrote to my family about my journey here thus far. It is exciting :)</div>
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Happy Hump Day to me! I almost can't believe it. This next week is my<br />
9 month mark. Half way. It seriously just blows my mind. It totally<br />
doesn't seem like it has been that long since I have been away.<br />
Sometimes I feel like I have missed so much. Christmas, birthdays,<br />
reunions, parties, traditions, new movies and music, etc. but at the<br />
same time I feel like I haven't missed out on anything. Because of the<br />
knowledge I have gained and the person I am still becoming. Because of<br />
the lives I have seen myself help and the service I have been able to<br />
give. Because of the things I have seen and the understanding that I<br />
now have.<br />
Before my mission, as many of you know, I thought I was the bomb. I<br />
thought I was awesome and I had everything going for me. Coming here<br />
has been a complete eye opener for me. I have found that I am nothing<br />
compared to who I thought I was. I am not really that cool, I am not<br />
funny, I am not awesome, I am pretty mediocre. But with the help of<br />
The Lord, I can do a lot more. He makes up for everything that I am<br />
not. And how grateful I am that He does.<br />
So I wanted to share the top 10 things that I have learned since I<br />
have been here. They might not actually be the top 10, but they are 10<br />
very meaningful things on my mind as of this moment.<br />
#1. Not everything is about me. I know this is all ya'lls favorite<br />
thing to say, but it wasn't until I came here that I realized how much<br />
everything really was always about me. I was selfish! My decisions,<br />
what I wanted to do, where I wanted to go, how I felt, etc. Every<br />
decision I made and everything I did was for me. Now, nothing is about<br />
me. And when I try to make it about myself, nothing goes right. And<br />
after marriage, it will still not be about me. (My birthdays still<br />
will be, so don't forget those!) It will all be for my future husband<br />
and my future family and forever about my Savior. How grateful I am to<br />
have learned this now verses when I am married or even just dating. I<br />
have come to know my true self so much better here than I ever have<br />
before. And it was honestly an eye opener to see how I reacted to<br />
things and the person I was. It wasn't quite the person I wanted to<br />
be. But I am slowly becoming that person. Who you are is part natural<br />
and part effort. I am just working on the effort part.<br />
#2. Anything important in life takes a lot of work. If it doesn't take<br />
work, it isn't important. Understanding the gospel, receiving answers<br />
to prayers, getting along with your companion, preparing for the<br />
workday, etc. it all takes a lot of effort if it is to be done right.<br />
But it is worth it to put effort into it. It is more tiring for sure,<br />
but the alternative is disappointment. And that's much worse.<br />
#3. Patience really is a virtue. And it is necessary when you live<br />
with someone. I had no idea just how frustrated I could get in my head<br />
at things. And just stupid little things. I also didn't know what a<br />
clean freak I was raised to be. Not that everything has to be spotless<br />
and in its exact place, but it definitely can't be filthy and<br />
everywhere except where it should be. I have learned that the best way<br />
to deal with frustration with your companion is to serve them. What do<br />
I do when I hate that my companion doesn't do the dishes or make her<br />
bed? I do her dishes and make her bed. It's that simple honestly. She<br />
can't complain and I can't complain, so we get over it and move on. I<br />
have learned that although I hate being wrong, sometimes, I am wrong.<br />
And it's okay. And instead of being mopey, it is a lot more fun to<br />
gloat about how awesome my companion is for being right and let them<br />
feel the praise for being right.<br />
#4. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. But then there is<br />
another tunnel. Nothing lasts forever. There is always one final curve<br />
you take and you get to see the glorious light of joy or happiness or<br />
relief. But once that light hits The Lord will send you into another<br />
tunnel. Why even send us into tunnels you may ask? Because we can't<br />
see our way and we have to ask God for help. And that is when we make<br />
it farther. If it were all sunshine and lollipops I would be a sitting<br />
duck. And a fat one at that.<br />
#5. Family is everything. I had no idea how much I would miss my<br />
family until I came here. I mean, going to college is one thing, but,<br />
going to a different state with limited communication is a whole other<br />
thing. I am sure people are just sick of looking at pictures of you<br />
all. It is my favorite subject to talk about. I love telling people<br />
about my crazy siblings and all the fabulous things we do together.<br />
And seeing the look on their faces when I tell them just how insane we<br />
really are... It's priceless. I didn't realize just how amazing our<br />
family was until I saw families here. I was and am truly blessed to be<br />
in the family I am in. To grow up with loving parents who taught and<br />
lived the word of God. Who worked hard to support the greatest gift<br />
that God can give. To take on the responsibility necessary to<br />
sacrifice and labor for the well being of 8 kids. And to live with the<br />
most amazing examples of dedication, hard work, service, love,<br />
kindness, etc. that I have in my siblings. Yeah, we have had our<br />
moments, but more than that, we are a family. And a dang good one I<br />
might add!<br />
#6. Conversion isn't just putting on a shirt and tie (or a dress) on<br />
Sundays. It is a whole lot more. True conversion comes from countless<br />
hours of callings and service, many a days of camps and projects,<br />
multiple activities and get togethers, meetings, babysitting,<br />
donating, helping, etc. The person you are at the end of the day. How<br />
you live your day to day life is a true scale of just how converted to<br />
the gospel you are. I have learned that there is a huge difference of<br />
being converted to the church vs. converted to the gospel. If the<br />
prophet was to stand in Conference today to say that he received a<br />
witness that this church in fact wasn't true, would that shake our<br />
testimony? Mine still might be, just a bit, but it shouldn't! We<br />
cannot just be "Sunday Mormons". It isn't enough. We are disciples of<br />
Christ. Daily disciples. And the gospel isn't just for us to sit in a<br />
building for 3 hours, but for us to literally become like our Savior.<br />
#7. Happiness is a choice. We will always have reasons to not be<br />
happy. Sometimes we have to fake a smile until the real one comes. But<br />
if you look hard enough, there is always a reason to smile. Always.<br />
And people need it. My whole life I have looked up to people like<br />
Debbie Olsen and Becky Morrill who are always happy and smiling. And<br />
that is why I looked up to them. I never saw them mad or even solemn.<br />
Always happy. Makes life a lot more fun honestly when you are around<br />
happy people. I have seen Elders here who feel like they have a hard<br />
companion and are grumpy all the time. And I have seen other Elders<br />
with the same companion and they are always smiling. The companion<br />
didn't change, the Elder changed. So it is with everything. Our<br />
situations won't change if we are grumpy about it. In fact, if<br />
anything, it will get worse, making us worse. But if we just decide to<br />
smile, who knows what can happen.<br />
#8. Christ is real. He loves us and he listens to us. And our prayers<br />
are always answered. Just not usually in the ways that we want. Christ<br />
not only told us the way, but he lived the way and provided us the<br />
means necessary to walk the way and live forever. Without Christ, we<br />
literally are nothing. Without Christ, we have no hope. Without<br />
Christ, there is no purpose. And it is true that the more you learn<br />
about Christ and the Atonement, the more you want to share His gospel.<br />
Why hold in the greatest news that has ever come to mankind; that we<br />
can be saved? That we will live again. And Christ provided the way.<br />
And it is as simple as following Him that will give us our reward. How<br />
blessed we are!<br />
#9. There is so much more to life than having fun. And most things<br />
that are fun don't even last. Sometimes I am guilty of the good,<br />
better, best scale. Nothing I do on a mission is bad. I am never going<br />
off and watching movies or partying. But sometimes I let my mind rule<br />
over me to do the good thing instead of the best thing. I have noticed<br />
that it is usually because the good thing is more fun for me. But how<br />
much more fun? The fun only lasts while I am there, while doing the<br />
alternative lasts a whole lot longer. And it's those best things that<br />
I end up writing home about and it's those best things that stay with<br />
me longer. Looking back at the last 9 months I don't remember<br />
everything. But the memories I cherish the most are the times I made<br />
the best decisions. I am still working on it, but it is coming.<br />
#10. This is the true church. I cannot deny it. The more I testify of<br />
the truthfulness of this message I am proclaiming, the more conviction<br />
I have to say that this is God's gospel. It is His priesthood. Joseph<br />
Smith is His chosen prophet who restored His organized church. Thomas<br />
S. Monson is chosen of God and leads and guides His church today. The<br />
Book of Mormon is the word of God given to his prophets. Through the<br />
Atonement and suffering of Christ, we are relieved from worldly cares<br />
to be able to return to the presence of our loving Father to dwell<br />
with Him and with our families for all eternity.<br />
I want you all to know just how grateful I am for all of you. You are<br />
all inspirational in so many ways.<br />
Thank you mom and dad for your love and support. I couldn't be here<br />
without your help. Literally! Thank you for your weekly emails. For<br />
your words of wisdom when I am frustrated or down. For your love that<br />
you constantly share.<br />
Thank you to my sister for all the packages filled with love and for<br />
making my scrapbook. I haven't seen it yet, but I am sure it looks<br />
great! It will be nice to have as a memory of all that is happening.<br />
Thank you to all my older brothers who served. Thank you for your full<br />
service and for your words of encouragement and love. Thank you for<br />
being strong and being perfect examples of service. As I don't know<br />
what to do, I sometimes ask myself what I think you would have done.<br />
You are all wonderful.<br />
And thank you to my little brothers for believing in me. Thank you for<br />
sharing your feelings with me and allowing me to help, even with how<br />
far away I am. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be the one<br />
you look up to. You are the ones who keep me trekking. I know I need<br />
to show you that hard things can be done.<br />
I love you all and am excited to see you in 9 short months :) Be ready<br />
for some complete awkwardness, because I am stock full of it!</div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-91912304573819765952014-05-23T09:17:00.001-07:002014-05-23T09:17:37.989-07:009 Months<div style="text-align: center;">
I know I hit my half way mark about a month ago. I have seriously slacked on posting.</div>
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But how grateful I am to be a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is the hardest thing I have ever done, but, it is the most rewarding thing I have ever done. </div>
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I am so grateful to be a representative of Christ. To wear His name proudly on my shoulder each day. I am so grateful for the relationship I have been able to gain with Him and for the chance that I have to share with others how they can find the peace and joy that I have in my life by coming unto Christ.</div>
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I love my life. I am grateful for the challenges I have been through that have made me the daughter I am today. I am excited for 9 more months of fun in Chicagoland!</div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-20210038921606824372014-05-23T09:14:00.002-07:002014-05-23T09:14:52.971-07:00Strength<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent">"Therefore, wo be unto him that is at ease in Zion!"<br /> -2 Nephi 28:24<br /> We are stronger than we think!</span></div>
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<span class="userContent"><img alt="Photo: "Therefore, wo be unto him that is at ease in Zion!"
-2 Nephi 28:24
We are stronger than we think!" class="img" height="400" src="https://scontent-a-mia.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1.0-9/p180x540/10291866_1445624259010452_3442885231706069841_n.jpg" style="left: 0px;" width="332" /> </span></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-82697800778113142452014-05-23T09:13:00.000-07:002014-05-23T09:28:08.106-07:00#BecauseofHim<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am beyond grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ. I am literally nothing without Him. I am here as a missionary not to force people to join my church, but to invite others to strengthen their relationship with Christ. Because that is what matters. He is everything and He can bless your life if you let Him in.</div>
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Follow the link below to discover what is possible Because of Him.</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_S3TI4bYerU#action=share">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_S3TI4bYerU#action=share</a></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-214949816897164362014-05-23T09:03:00.002-07:002014-05-23T09:03:50.073-07:00#itwasmom<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent"><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/itwasmom">#itwasmom</a>
who taught me to love the gospel and sat and held my hand walking into
The House of The Lord. So grateful for my momma! She is the best mom in
the world! I love her with all my heart. </span></div>
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<span class="userContent"><img alt="Photo: #itwasmom who taught me to love the gospel and sat and held my hand walking into The House of The Lord. So grateful for my momma! She is the best mom in the world! I love her with all my heart. (Special shoutout to my dad as well. He did a great job too!) Paul E. Spackman" class="img" height="504" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/t1.0-9/p180x540/10341554_1448264808746397_6091210625322754237_n.jpg" style="left: 0px;" width="334" /> </span></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-83994828514309439832014-05-23T09:02:00.001-07:002014-05-23T09:02:34.615-07:00Baptism<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" class="spotlight" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1.0-9/10329248_1449252695314275_7786412671554236430_n.jpg" width="335" /> </div>
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<a class="bookmark-anchor dontHighlight" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="8"> </a><span class="verse">8 </span>And
it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of
Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come
into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to
bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;</div>
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<a class="bookmark-anchor dontHighlight" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="9"> </a><span class="verse">9 </span>Yea,
and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those
that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all
times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until
death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of
the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life—</div>
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<a class="bookmark-anchor dontHighlight" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="10"> </a><span class="verse">10 </span>Now
I say unto you, if this be the desire of your hearts, what have you
against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him
that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him
and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more
abundantly upon you?</div>
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Congratulations Karl for your decision to be baptized. </div>
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It was a long journey. But I have seen the light enter into his eyes. I am so proud of him and his decision to follow the example of Jesus Christ. </div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-58561904172305930712014-04-09T09:24:00.001-07:002014-04-09T09:24:44.957-07:00Mountains to Climb<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This is a letter I sent to my mom a little while back. She resent it to me and I thought it was fun to read. </i></div>
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This is hard! But, I am way too strong to come home.
Sometimes I think that I want to, but then I think about what I have
learned already and I couldn't do it. </div>
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I think of it like Hiking. It is hard and brutal on the way up. I want
to cry a lot and I am breathing hard and I am tired and winded and I
want to stop and take a break. I start to wonder why I am even hiking in
the first place. Then I turn around and see kind of where I am on the
mountain and I get to see a mini view of where I came from and it is
pretty. I know the view from the top is even better, so I keep on
keeping on. One day I will be at the top. I will get to look down and
see the path that I climbed. I will get to relax and sit there and look out over all the land
and see where I got to from the bottom. I get to see a beautiful scene
that God has created just for me. Then, I get to run down the mountain
and look back at the top and just smile at the path that I was lucky
enough to take. Then, I turn around, and there is another mountain that I get to climb. It
won't be easier than this one, but there are going to be a lot of
similar stumps and rocks that I will have to go around. And at the top
of that mountain, I will get to look over and see the other mountain top
and remember all the fun times. </div>
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Right now, I am still pretty far down
the mountain. Looking up, I just see a steep and tall climb that I have
to take. Looking back I can see where I came from, and it is pretty and I
am impressed that I have made it this far. Looking forward, I get a
little discouraged knowing that I am barely a fourth of the way up the
mountain. But my mountain needs to be climbed. I have to keep trekking.
And think how beautiful the view will be from the top.<br />
<img alt="" class="spotlight" height="355" src="https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t1.0-9/10153248_696361153762326_686575240_n.jpg" width="400" /> </div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-84997622251052485222014-03-28T09:14:00.001-07:002014-03-28T09:14:40.105-07:005 Things This Mormon Wish You Knew<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> I found this on Facebook. Thought it was nice enough to share...</i></div>
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It’s not something I talk about much, which is strange because my
faith is actually a huge part of my life. I think the main reason is
because I don’t like to feel judged, and I don’t want anyone else to
assume I’m judging them. Religion is a very sacred and personal thing to
most people, enough so that the mere mention of the word “religion” is
bound to offend someone, or at least initiate a case of the cold sweats
(I’m kind of a sweaty person anyway, but uncomfortable religious talk <strong>DEFINITELY</strong>
gives me armpit tacos). I’m also pretty private (yes, blogging propels
me far outside my comfort zone), and I’m typically not prone to talking
about my personal life unless people ask.</div>
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But I’ve started to realize that a lot of my friends and family are actually pretty curious about Mormons, but are <strong><em>too afraid</em></strong> to ask.</div>
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What do Mormons believe? Do we worship Jesus Christ or Joseph Smith? Why do we wear funny underwear?!</div>
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I know quite a few people harbor some pretty deep-seated
misconceptions about Mormons. Some can’t stand us (I hadn’t seen this
type of animosity until I moved to Mormon Mecca (a.k.a. Utah), which
totally surprised me). Many are confused by us. Probably an even larger
number are unaware we exist (I was one of these. I grew up thinking
Mormons were the predecessors of the Amish…Not totally sure where that
came from). The thing is, I really love being Mormon–honestly, I do. But
as a convert to this faith–I converted when I was 20–I’m fully aware of
how our church and its members are perceived from the outside looking
in.</div>
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I sat thinking today, and I realized that I desperately wished people
knew more about my faith. And believe me, not in the hopes that they
would denounce their faiths and dive into the Mormony waters of baptism;
my motives are more selfish than that. I just want people to stop
looking at me like I have three heads when they find out I’m Mormon. I
also want them to know I’m a normal person, with faults and feelings and
hopes and disappointments that make me just like everyone else. I could
have made a really long, doctriney-based list, but I narrowed down
five, super non-specific things I wish more people knew about Mormons:</div>
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<strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">1. Mormons are Christian (and while we’re on the subject: The Mormon Church Isn’t a <del>Cult</del>)</span></strong></div>
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The actual name of the “Mormon” church, in case you didn’t know, is
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (I use Mormon and LDS
Church interchangeably, since most people are more familiar with
“Mormon”). ”Mormon” is actually a nickname that came from the Book of Mormon,
a book of scripture which is another testament of Jesus Christ. We
believe in God (our literal Father in heaven), in his Son Jesus Christ,
and in the Holy Ghost. We believe Jesus Christ is the Savior and
Redeemer of the world, that He was crucified and was resurrected. We
worship Him, learn of Him through the Old and New Testament, as well as
the Book of Mormon, and strive to become more like Him.</div>
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On that same note, I’m not entirely sure why people think the Mormon
church is a cult–more so than any other religion, anyway. Sure some of
our doctrine may seem foreign to some, but ALL religions are built upon
stories and assertions that defy science and logic. Christians <em>actually</em> believe a mortal was the literal Son of God, and that he was capable of healing the sick and raising the dead. Jews <em>actually</em> believe Moses parted the Red Sea. Hindus <em>actually </em>believe people die and continue to be reincarnated over and over again. Muslims <em>actually</em>
believe Muhammad spoke to the Angel Gabriel. (I had a comment here
about Atheism that several atheists informed me was inaccurate–so…it’s
out. I don’t want to misrepresent others’ beliefs, especially
considering the spirit of this post (yikes Kelly, way to be a raging
hypocrite!)). It’s also worth noting that there are nearly 15 million
Mormons worldwide, which is actually about the same as the worldwide
Jewish population. We may not be “mainstream”, but we’re not small and
we’re not extreme. As a whole, we have really traditional views on most
social issues, which are pretty in-line with most Christian
denominations. Not to mention, we wholeheartedly believe in free choice
as well as freedom of religion for everybody, including Mormons who
decide the whole Mormon thing just isn’t for them. I haven’t been asked
to drink any Kool-Aid yet, but I’ll keep you updated.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>2. Mormons Aren’t Judging You</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Obviously, this is collectively speaking. I’m sure there <strong><em>are</em></strong>
Mormons that judge you, just like there are inevitably atheists,
Catholics, Muslims, and Jews that judge you. I think most of this
perceived judgment comes from the fact that we’re encouraged to live a
pretty straight lifestyle–we commit to abstaining from alcohol, coffee
or tea, smoking and using drugs. We believe in chastity before marriage.
We’re commanded to avoid pornography, and we’re encouraged to dress
modestly, to not swear, etc. etc. etc. Not surprisingly, people assume
that because I say “no” when I’m offered a beer that I’m secretly
condemning them because <em><strong>they</strong></em> drink beer. I get it. I’m guilty of that line of thinking. My brother recently became a vegetarian, and I just <strong><em>knew</em></strong>
at every meal he was thinking I was Satan for enjoying tasty animal
flesh while he gnoshed on beans and lettuce. But the truth is, 1. I
don’t think most of the things I abstain from are truly bad, I’ve just
made a commitment to not to do those things 2. I don’t have the time or
energy to judge you and 3. That’s not what Christ would do; I love
President Uchtdorf’s (a member of the presidency of our church) thoughts
on judging others:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“When it comes to hating, gossiping, ignoring, ridiculing, holding
grudges, or wanting to cause harm, please apply the following:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stop it!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It’s that simple. We simply have to stop judging others and replace
judgmental thoughts and feelings with a heart full of love for God and
His children. “</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What it comes down to is that I respect your choices, and I hope you can respect mine. So let’s just be friends.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>3. Mormon.org Can Answer Most of Your Questions (So can…Mormons)</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When I find people spouting off negative, inaccurate information
about the LDS Church, I’m never surprised to find that it typically
originates from websites whose sole intention is to promulgate negative,
inaccurate information about the LDS Church. If you wanted to learn
about black history, you wouldn’t check the KKK website first, would
you?? Likewise, if you have a question about Mormons or the Mormon
church, wouldn’t it make sense to go straight to the source? <a href="http://www.mormon.org/" target="_blank" title="Mormon.org">Mormon.org</a> and <a href="http://www.lds.org/" target="_blank" title="LDS.org">LDS.org</a>
are sponsored by the LDS Church and have a ton of information for both
Mormons and non-Mormons. (2nd Edit: This is not to say that people
should ONLY view websites sponsored by the Mormon church–there are MANY
great non-church sponsored websites that have a lot of good information
about Mormons, and allow for candid discussions about the Mormon faith. I
would caution, that people need to be aware (especially those who are
completely unfamiliar with Mormon beliefs) that there are many sites
that are FULL of misinformation about the Mormon church, and as far as
learning the fundamentals of our beliefs, I still think Mormon.org and
LDS.org are the place to go). I think you’ll also find that most Mormons
are happy to have you just ask them directly if you’re curious about
something. I don’t get offended when people have genuine questions about
my religion; I appreciate the fact that they consider me a reputable
source, and I’m honored that they feel comfortable enough to ask.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>4. We’re Not (Always) Trying to Convert You</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I had one friend tell me she thought most Mormons were really nice,
but she couldn’t stand feeling like they were always trying to get her
to convert. The fact is, our church is HUGE on proselyting; so much so
that boys over 18 are expected to serve a two year church mission (I’m
sure you’ve seen them in suits with backpacks, bikes, and name tags).
Aside from our missionaries (whose actual purpose is in fact to
introduce people to our church and the gospel of Jesus Christ), most
Mormons are just normal people who are <strong><em>really</em></strong>
excited about their faith. Why? Because most find it to be extremely
meaningful and fulfilling, and it makes them happy. Yes, listening to
them might be overwhelming, but if it is, politely change the subject or
tell your friend or neighbor you’re not comfortable having that
conversation. There’s no competition or reward for conversions or
baptisms. If someone has a hidden agenda to befriend you in order to get
you to convert, that’s wrong. And it’s crazy. But if in the normal
course of your relationship religion comes up, and your Mormon friend
shares things about their faith, it’s not because they’re trying to suck
you in or brainwash you. I would hope most Mormons are just as
interested in learning about your faith and the things that are
important to you as they are about sharing their own.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>5. Not All Mormons are Like that One Weird Mormon Person you Know</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I’m never sure how I should feel when I’ve known someone for a little
while and they say to me, “Wow, I never would have guessed you were
Mormon!”, especially when they say it as a compliment. On the one hand,
I’m grateful to NOT fit whatever horrible stereotype they’ve bought into
and project on every Mormon person they meet. But on the other hand, I
REALLY REALLY like being Mormon, and I’m not ashamed of it. The fact is,
stereotyping someone because of their religion is the same as
stereotyping someone for being black, or Asian, or Muslim, or female.
All I ask is that you see me as a human first, that you give me the
benefit of the doubt and get to know me first before you decide whether
or not we can be friends.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for making it this far down the list. I hope you now know that
if you have questions about Mormons, here’s one you can ask <span class="wp-smiley emoji emoji-smile" title=":)">:)</span></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-81220336081329528542014-03-28T09:09:00.000-07:002014-03-28T09:09:02.789-07:00Hope<div style="text-align: center;">
<span>At times we may feel as though we are drowning in the floods of
the world or the tsunamis that are enveloping our lives. Courage leaves
our hearts, as we see and feel the despair in our lives come crashing
down around us. There seems to be <span class="text_exposed_show">no
hope left for us. But there is always hope, for Christ is always
stretching forth his hand to save us, to uplift us from our pits of
torment and to exalt us to stand by his side. Why? Because He loves us,
and I testify that it is never too late to reach out and take his hand
so that He can draw us back into his loving embrace. There is always
Hope; for Christ will always live. <br /> <br /> "Yea, verily I say unto
you, if ye will come unto me ye shall have eternal life. Behold, mine
arm of mercy is extended towards you, and whosoever will come, him will I
receive; and blessed are those who come unto me."<br /> 3 Nephi 9:14</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="spotlight" height="400" src="https://scontent-b-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1.0-9/1939569_10202403124373075_1796014545_n.jpg" style="height: 362px; width: 362px;" width="400" /> </span></div>
<span></span>Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-54598903321637237372014-03-25T09:48:00.000-07:002014-03-25T09:48:47.062-07:00Book of Mormon Challenge<div style="text-align: center;">
Right before Christmas we as missionaries of the Illinois Chicago Mission were given a Book of Mormon challenge from our loved Mission President, President Woodbury. We were asked to read the Book of Mormon all the way through before General Conference. He asked us specifically to search the Book of Mormon for when it mentions Jesus Christ and His Atonement.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well... I just finished the challenge this last week. And I am so happy! I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. I receive a personal witness of its truthfulness every time I read it. It was especially fun to read it with Christ and His Atonement in mind. I had no idea how much the Book of Mormon is all about Christ and what He has done for us.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ. I know that Christ lives and loves me. I know that He has set the path for me to follow. I know that it is by Him and through Him that we can all return to the presence of our loving Heavenly Father again for eternity. I am eternally indebted to my Lord for what He has done for me, but I am grateful for this service that I am able to give to Him and His children.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzyraVYrARiUXVjm9x98-qhHM_OshjBImURjea4jADXV7Jw234ldL4VQiLU7lmgsbe7V_yuCS8D03UbfOjapp2l7KxvuEonZU792ZgRdtNwGZu_8NzRB4Z7OAXRrlgP2ZJh4-GJy06Tc/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzyraVYrARiUXVjm9x98-qhHM_OshjBImURjea4jADXV7Jw234ldL4VQiLU7lmgsbe7V_yuCS8D03UbfOjapp2l7KxvuEonZU792ZgRdtNwGZu_8NzRB4Z7OAXRrlgP2ZJh4-GJy06Tc/s1600/photo.JPG" height="297" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-43988002273590013862014-03-18T09:39:00.006-07:002014-03-25T09:49:00.030-07:00One Year<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent">One year ago I was opening this call letter to serve as a full time missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I never thought I would get this opportunity to serve. And how
eternally grateful I am for this chance to give up what I have to serve
my God. My life has forever been changed because of my decision to
serve.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0eoUwEc0C1TLD7hdLGZ5s7GhGn2X5cqCr0prTr98-fA2Mcv2CN0OQWc-vTS4EW-gV2GSJlVtIRrPWywksZKMQCvokR-5hyphenhyphen7n-nJB6ZRuiHtWVUD65wcrqOM_XKq8yAo3taBUgTpbeKGU/s1600/Jamie+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0eoUwEc0C1TLD7hdLGZ5s7GhGn2X5cqCr0prTr98-fA2Mcv2CN0OQWc-vTS4EW-gV2GSJlVtIRrPWywksZKMQCvokR-5hyphenhyphen7n-nJB6ZRuiHtWVUD65wcrqOM_XKq8yAo3taBUgTpbeKGU/s1600/Jamie+3.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<span class="userContent"><br /></span>Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-1202513434433571332014-03-07T09:27:00.001-08:002014-03-07T09:28:12.399-08:00Miracles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" src="http://media.ldscdn.org/images/media-library/the-life-of-jesus-christ/woman-with-issue-of-blood-950127-gallery.jpg" height="200" itemprop="contentURL" width="400" /> </div>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Miracles <i>do not</i> produce faith." </div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">
Sometimes we ask for a miracle to happen for us to believe. But it
<i>doesn't</i> work that way. The Lord wouldn't give us a miracle when we ask
for faith, because the miracle <i>literally can't produce that faith</i> that
we want. But that doesn't mean that miracles won't come.<br /> "Faith is things which are <b>hoped</b> for and <b>not seen</b>; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for <u>ye</u><span class="text_exposed_show"><u> receive no witness until after the trial of your faith</u>."<br />
"<i>Faith</i> comes by <i>righteousness</i>. <b>Strong</b> <i>faith </i>is developed by <i>obedience</i>
to the gospel of Jesus Christ. And <i>miracles</i> come to <i>confirm</i> one’s
faith."<br /> Instead of asking for a miracle to give us faith, let us all <u>live our faith</u> and see the miracles that come as our confirmation.</span></span> </div>
<br />Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-50482340526726117162014-03-07T09:07:00.003-08:002014-03-07T09:07:50.166-08:00Create<div style="text-align: center;">
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">"Create of your life a masterpiece.<br />
Brothers and sisters, the abundant life does not come to us packaged
and ready-made. It’s not something we can order and expect to find
delivered with the afternoon mail. It does not come without hardship or
sorrow.<br /> It comes through faith, hope, and charity. And it comes to
those who, in spite of hardship and sorrow, understand the words of one
writer who said, “In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within
me there lay an invincible summer.”" </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">- Joseph B. Wirthlin</span></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-42938991211465025432014-02-27T09:24:00.002-08:002014-02-27T09:24:58.141-08:00The Atonement<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" class="spotlight" height="264" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/t31/1500899_10152198943887359_1787237075_o.jpg" width="400" /> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"I am convinced that [our earthly journey] is not easy because <span class="emphasis">salvation is not a cheap experience. </span>Salvation <span class="emphasis">never</span> was easy. We are The
Church of Jesus Christ, this is the truth, and He is our Great Eternal
Head. How could we believe it would be easy for us when it was never,
ever easy for Him? It seems to me that [everyone who ever lives will]
have to spend at least a few moments in Gethsemane. [We will] have to take at least a step or two toward the summit of Calvary."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"I believe that [you and I], to come to the truth, to come to salvation, to know
something of this price that has been paid, will have to pay a token of
that same price."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"When you struggle, when you are rejected, when you are spit upon and
cast out and made a hiss and a byword, you are standing with the best
life this world has ever known, the only pure and perfect life ever
lived. You have reason to stand tall and be grateful that the Living Son
of the Living God knows all about your sorrows and afflictions. The
only way to salvation is through Gethsemane and on to Calvary. The only
way to eternity is through Him—the Way, the Truth, and the Life." </div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-32529355648055803642014-02-25T08:57:00.003-08:002014-03-07T09:06:00.992-08:00God's Words Never Cease<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">"Why
does God not speak to us today?" "If God is the same yesterday, today,
and forever, why would He hold back His words from us?"<br /> When asked these questions by a friend, Hugh B. Brown responded as follows;<br /> <br /> "May I suggest some possible reasons: perhaps God does not speak to man anymore because He cannot. He has lost the power.”<br /> <span class="text_exposed_show"><br /> He said, “Of course that would be blasphemous.”<br /> <br />
“Well, then, if you don’t accept that, perhaps He doesn’t speak to men
because He doesn’t love us anymore. He is no longer interested in the
affairs of men.”<br /> <br /> “No,” he said, “God loves all men, and He is no respecter of persons.”<br /> <br />
“Well, then, if He could speak and if He loves us, then the only other
possible answer, as I see it, is that we don’t need Him. We have made
such rapid strides in science, we are so well educated, that we don’t
need God anymore.”<br /> <br /> And then he said, and his voice trembled as
he thought of impending war: "Mr. Brown, there never was a time in the
history of the world when the voice of God was needed as it is needed
now. Perhaps you can tell me why He doesn’t speak.”<br /> <br /> My answer was: “He does speak. He has spoken, but men need faith to hear Him.”<br /> <a href="http://www.lds.org/liahona/2006/06/the-profile-of-a-prophet?lang=eng&query=profile+of+a+prophet" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.lds.org/<wbr></wbr>liahona/2006/06/<wbr></wbr>the-profile-of-a-prophet?la<wbr></wbr>ng=eng&query=profile+of+a+<wbr></wbr>prophet</a><br /> <br />
I testify that God speaks to us. Like in times of old, God has called a
prophet to lead and guide His church. Through that prophet, we hear the
word of God. I know this to be true. <br /> <br /> "Come, listen to a prophet's voice,<br /> And hear the word of God"<br /> <br /> I know Christ lives. I know that His church has been restored upon the earth. How grateful I am for this knowledge.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"><span class="text_exposed_show"><img alt="" src="http://media.ldscdn.org/images/media-library/jesus-christ/jesus-christ-1138511-gallery.jpg" height="400" itemprop="contentURL" width="265" /> </span></span></span></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-59628196642501303322014-02-22T08:59:00.001-08:002014-02-22T08:59:10.262-08:00Trials<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">"And
the world, because of their iniquity, shall judge him to be a thing of
naught; wherefore they scourge him, and he suffereth it; and they smite
him, and he suffereth it. Yea, they spit upon him, and he suffereth it,
because of his loving kindness and his long-suffering towards the
children of men.” <br /> The great and exquisite suffering of the Savior was for us, to keep us from having to suffer as<span class="text_exposed_show">
He suffered. However, suffering is a part of life, and few will escape
its grasp. Since it is something that each of us has gone through, is
going through, or will go through, there is scriptural suggestion that
we can learn spiritual lessons if we can approach suffering, sorrow, or
grief with a focus on Christ. <br /> “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:<br />
“And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with
Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified
together.” <br /> As we are called upon to endure suffering, sometimes
inflicted upon us intentionally or negligently, we are put in a unique
position—if we choose, we may be allowed to have new awareness of the
suffering of the Son of God.<br /> Sometimes we cannot understand that
mortal suffering can bring eternal blessings. “If the very jaws of hell
shall gape open the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son, that all
these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.”<br /> -"Your Sorrows Shall Be Turned to Joy" October 1983, Robert D. Hales<br /> -"That They Might Know Thee" October 2006, Keith R. Edwards</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" height="266" itemprop="contentURL" src="http://media.ldscdn.org/images/media-library/the-life-of-jesus-christ/woman-at-the-well-941814-gallery.jpg" width="400" /> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">The Lord knows and loves us. He wants us to fulfill his plan. The simple
fact is that part of the plan is to understand what Christ went through
so we can access His atonement. So that we can lay up our treasures in
heaven. I am so grateful that I have trials. I don't love my trials, but
I love what comes from my trials. God is so good my friends!!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"> </span></span><br /><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"></span></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-70178302867178178102014-02-22T08:56:00.003-08:002014-02-22T08:56:49.518-08:00Parable of the Current Bush<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent">This is definitely one of the most humbling videos I have ever seen. <br />
Do you ever wonder why hard or trying things happen to us? When we are
doing all we can, why does it seem like God isn't? Sometimes we have to
be </span><span class="userContent">cut down to become who God wants us to become. Remember that!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent"><img alt="" itemprop="contentURL" src="http://media.ldscdn.org/images/media-library/temples/st-george-utah/berries-and-building-775811-gallery.jpg" /> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent"><a href="http://bcove.me/ap06evy9">Click Here</a> to watch the video.</span></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-3114324132105731452014-02-22T08:52:00.000-08:002014-02-22T08:52:01.221-08:00Testimony<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">"What
young musician, after years of agonizing rehearsal was finally
scheduled to debut in a capacity concert hall, would, while en route to
the performance, stop to join a long line forming at the latest hit
movie, forgetting the thousands of people waiting to hear her?<br /> "What
world-class runner, after training for well over a decade, would find
himself in the Olympic finals, only to stop running <span class="text_exposed_show">halfway through his race to watch the high-jump finals taking place on the other side of the field?<br />
"These examples may seem preposterous—but how much more tragic it is
for someone who, equipped with a testimony of the truth and a knowledge
of the purpose of life, becomes more absorbed in life today than in life
forever. Who’s just a little more concerned about his or her status and
standing in mortality than in eternity. Whose focus is not directed to
God the Father and his Son, Jesus Christ, with whom it is possible to
have a glorious connection and bond."<br /> <a href="http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1992/10/a-yearning-for-home?lang=eng" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank"><span>http://www.lds.org/</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span><span>general-conference/1992/10/</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>a-yearning-for-home?lang=eng</a><br /> <br />
We all can gain, or even have, this testimony of truth. And how
important it is to remember the eternal perspective of that testimony
vs. the worldly perspective. God is forever. And we will be too. So
focus on that! Focus on the eternal. Makes this life a whole lot better,
I promise you that!</span></span></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-64662009048896830282014-02-22T08:51:00.001-08:002014-02-22T08:51:09.840-08:00Miracles<div style="text-align: center;">
I believe in miracles. Little moments that God gives us to keep us on track. To remind us that He is in control. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These last couple weeks have been full of tiny miracles. I don't have time to write them all, but I am grateful for them all. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love my life. I love this time that I have to serve my God. I love being a missionary and sharing the truthfulness of the Restored Gospel. I am grateful for my Savior who has given me all. It is to Him that I sing praises and to Him that I worship. And I choose to do it in His way. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I bear my testimony to the world that Christ lives. And He loves us unconditionally. As we serve Him and follow Him we will see miracles. How blessed I am for this sure knowledge!</div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-45499096529884895072014-02-04T09:15:00.000-08:002014-02-04T09:15:10.235-08:00Book of Mormon<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent">Know ye not that there are more nations than
one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and
that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule
in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I<span class="text_exposed_show"> bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon<b> all</b> the nations of the earth?<br /> <br />
....For I command all men, both in the east and in the west, and in the
north, and in the south, and in the islands of the sea, that they shall
write the words which I speak unto them; for out of the <b>books</b> which
shall be written I will judge the world, every man according to their
works, according to that which is written.<br /> <br /> (2 Nephi 29)</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show"><img alt="" class="spotlight" height="400" src="https://scontent-a-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1/533246_10151843910606550_1060369993_n.jpg" width="309" /> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">I know the Book of Mormon to be the word of God. I know that alongside the Bible, it contains the fullness of the Gospel. I love the Book of Mormon. After reading it, I couldn't deny the power and gifts of God. I love this church with all my heart! </span></span></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-42468068534119818652014-02-01T09:33:00.004-08:002014-02-01T09:33:44.770-08:00Our road...<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" class="spotlight" height="400" src="https://scontent-b-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1/76210_391099014361018_1148812428_n.jpg" width="333" /></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-41102905041926932102014-02-01T09:19:00.002-08:002014-02-01T09:22:13.184-08:00Suffering<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Why does God allow suffering to happen to good people? I have been asking myself this question a lot more than usual lately. I haven't completely come up with an answer, but I have found some stuff I really like...</i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><i>From the talk, "That They Might Know Thee" October 2006, Keith R. Edwards;</i></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"And
the world, because of their iniquity, shall judge him to be a thing of
naught; wherefore they scourge him, and he suffereth it; and they smite
him, and he suffereth it. Yea, they spit upon him, and he suffereth it,
because of his loving kindness and his long-suffering towards the
children of men.”<sup class="noteMarker">
</sup></div>
<div class="" style="text-align: center;">
The great and exquisite suffering of the Savior was for us, to keep us from having to suffer as He suffered.<sup class="noteMarker">
</sup> However, suffering is a part of life, and few will escape its
grasp. Since it is something that each of us has gone through, is going
through, or will go through, there is scriptural suggestion that we can
learn spiritual lessons if we can approach suffering, sorrow, or grief
with a focus on Christ. Anciently Paul wrote that our suffering may give
us an opportunity to know the Savior better. Paul wrote to the Romans:</div>
<div class="" style="text-align: center;">
“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:</div>
<div class="" style="text-align: center;">
“And
if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if
so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”<sup class="noteMarker">
</sup></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now,
lest anyone go looking for hardship and suffering, that is not what is
taught. Rather, it is the attitude with which we approach our hardships
and trials that allows us to know the Savior better.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Although
the purpose of the suffering is not always apparent at the time, the
Prophet Joseph had a singularly spiritual experience as he lingered in
Liberty Jail. The Lord comforted him:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="">
“My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment;</div>
<div class="">
“And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes.”<sup class="noteMarker">
</sup></div>
<div class="">
“Know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good. </div>
<div class="">
“The Son of Man hath descended below them all. Art thou greater than he?”<sup class="noteMarker">
</sup></div>
<div class="">
As
we are called upon to endure suffering, sometimes inflicted upon us
intentionally or negligently, we are put in a unique position—if we
choose, we may be allowed to have new awareness of the suffering of the
Son of God. While Alma tells us that Christ suffered all that any of us
will ever have to suffer that He might know how to succor us,<sup class="noteMarker"> </sup>the reverse may also be true: that our suffering may allow us insight into the depth and magnitude of His atoning sacrifice.</div>
<div class="">
<br /></div>
<div class="">
<i>We all can learn from our suffering "if
so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” We suffer to know Christ better. To become better.</i> </div>
<div class="">
<br /></div>
<div class="">
<u><i>From the talk, "Your Sorrows Shall Be Turned to Joy" October 1983, Robert D. Hales;</i></u></div>
<div class="">
[Our] suffering in mortality will bring a greater appreciation of the
blessings of a resurrected, perfect body. Also, our joy of service in
helping [others] in time of need brings us a greater appreciation for
one another. We
are told that out of suffering, sorrow, and sadness that joy will come.
Sometimes we cannot understand that mortal suffering can bring eternal
blessings.</div>
<div class="">
When Joseph Smith
was in Liberty Jail, he cried to the Lord for comfort, and the Lord
gave it to him. He said that “if the very jaws of hell shall gape open
the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son, that all these things
shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.” (D&C 122:7.) </div>
<div class="">
Suffering is universal; how we react to suffering is individual.
Suffering can take us one of two ways. It can be a strengthening and
purifying experience combined with faith, or it can be a destructive
force in our lives if we do not have the faith in the Lord’s atoning
sacrifice. The purpose of suffering, however, is to build and strengthen
us. We learn obedience by the things we suffer. We should be humbled
and drawn to the Lord.</div>
<div class="">
<br /></div>
<div class="">
<i>The Lord knows and loves us. He wants us to fulfil his plan. The simple fact is that part of the plan is to understand what Christ went through so we can access His atonement. I am so grateful that I have trials. I don't love my trials, but I love what comes from my trials. God is good!!</i></div>
<i></i></div>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-58621208395729589602014-01-31T08:51:00.001-08:002014-01-31T08:52:39.289-08:00Rejoice in God<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I do not boast in my own strength, nor in my own wisdom; but behold, my
joy is full, yea, my heart is brim with joy, and <b>I will</b> <i>rejoice</i> in my
God. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Yea, and my joy is carried away, even unto boasting in my God;
for he has <u>all</u> <i>power</i>, <u>all</u> <i>wisdom</i>, and <u>all</u> <i>understanding</i>; he
<i>comprehendeth</i> <u>all</u> things, and he is a <i>merciful</i> Being, even unto
salvation, to those who will <b>repent</b> and <b>believe</b> on his name.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now <u><i>if</i></u>
this is boasting, <b>even so will I boast</b>; for <i>this is my life</i> and my
light, my joy and my salvation, and my redemption from everlasting wo."</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="userContent" style="font-size: small;">
God is good! Why wouldn't I go around praising his name to the world?
God is real and he loves us. He made a perfect path to follow. And we
can follow! We are so blessed.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="userContent"><img alt=""Christ knows how to minister to others perfectly. When the Savior stretches out His hand those He touches are uplifted and become greater, stronger, and better people as a result. If we are His hands, should we not do the same?" -President Dieter F. Uchtdorf" src="http://31.media.tumblr.com/a9ef7a1ebd9b55f3b9032b12351fe99e/tumblr_my2dm4aeWq1rbw2xko1_500.jpg" height="226" width="400" /> </span></div>
</span></span></span></h5>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3466070829440914762.post-13868726061811667092014-01-31T08:42:00.000-08:002014-01-31T08:42:33.733-08:00Our 1/4...<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-size: small;">Want
to know how to receive answers from God? Read Moroni 10:4-5. 1) Ask
with a sincere heart 2) Have real intent 3) Have faith in Christ. <br /> And we all want an example don't we? Check out Alma 22. Focus on verses 17-18. <br />
17: "And it came to pass that when Aaron had said these words, the king
did bow down before The Lord, upon his knees; yea, and cried mightily
saying:"<br /> 18: "O God, Aaron hath told me that there is a God; and if
there is a God and if thou art God, wilt thou make thyself known unto
me, and <b>I will give away all my sins to know thee</b>."<br /> 1) The king<i>
immediately</i> went to work. He didn't wait to ask his questions. And he <i>
asked direct questions</i> knowing that he would get direct answers. He was
sincere.<br /> 2) The king wanted The Lord to know that he was in it. That
he intended upon acting on the answer that would come. He<i> promised</i> to
give away the one thing that God doesn't already own... His <i>heart</i>. His
<i>desires</i>. His <i>sins</i>. Literally, his <i>all</i>!<br /> 3) The king didn't know God
was even there. He prayed in <i>faith</i>. Not even knowing if anyone was
listening. Sometimes we don't know if anyone is listening. We don't know
if what we are being taught is true. But we prove our faith by asking.<br />
It is the <i>work</i> and the <i>glory</i> of The Lord to bring to pass the
<b>immortality</b> and <b>eternal life</b> of man (Moses 1:39). Immortality will come
to all men because our Savior came to earth. That part is covered. So
now, eternal life. Because God loves us he has provided a <i>plan</i> for us.
Aaron taught the king this plan from the scriptures. And this plan has
been revealed to us by God's prophets. <b>It's up to us</b> to learn that plan
and follow it. God has provided immortality and the path to eternal
life. He has fulfilled 3/4 of his purpose. So our part, "Behold, this is
YOUR work, to <i>keep my commandments</i>, yea, with all your might, mind, and
strength" (Doctrine and Covenants 11:20). <b>Our 1/4</b> is to <u><i>learn the plan
and follow it</i></u>. How blessed we are!<br /> I know that God has a plan. A
perfect plan. And we can know it and follow it. In fact it's our work to
learn it and follow it. <u>NOW</u> is the time to prepare to meet God! How
much are we willing to work to receive the blessings for fulfilling our
1/4?</span></span></span></span></h5>
Jamie Spackmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102537586402015641noreply@blogger.com0