Dear Ward Members:
I love this patriotic time of the year. What a wonderful blessing to live in the United States of America and in the great state of Utah. My father taught our family gratitude for our freedoms with a strong feeling of patriotism. I have fond youth memories sitting on the floor listening to my father and his six brothers discuss the gospel, politics, faith, and adventure. I remember a picture of the seven of them with the four oldest in the back row including my father, all dressed in their military uniforms – 2 in the Army, 1 in the Navy, and my father in the Air Force.
Now when my 3 brothers and I get together we enjoy having those same types of discussions. We all have our own opinions, feelings, and passions – a doctor, a military man, a businessman, and an educator. We are blessed to have the freedom that allows us to speak up and allow our voices to be heard. Even with differing opinions, we display respect and express love for each other as we listen, understand, and acknowledge other’s points of view.
In contrast, look at the chaos throughout our country. The plague of violence, rioting, and hatred seen in the news. The confusion of the mixed messages, hypocritical voices, and contradicting points of view. The disrespect for others. The contention driven by anxiety and fear. During this time of uncertainty, people seem to take offense to small and insignificant things and place unfair, hurtful labels on individuals and groups. The First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States provides all the “freedom of speech”. We are protected by it when we want to voice our opinion, yet some are silenced because their message is contradicting the narrative. The loudest voice seams to be noticed and its messages passed along with no regard to honesty or truth. Messages crafted to stir animosity and sensationalism, deceiving their audience by never telling the whole story.
Being somewhat concerned about this I was searching the Gospel library for a message and found this talk: “That Ye Not Be Offended” by Perry M. Christensen. He identified five rules or guidelines we could follow to not be offended and he includes wonderful scriptural examples.
Build a Firm Foundation
“We must be firm in our commitment and testimony of the gospel, in our sense of self-worth, in the knowledge of who we are, and in our sense of our divine potential.”
Perry M. Christensen
Understand the Intent
“When you feel you have been improperly judged, falsely accused, or offended in some way, pause to reflect upon the person’s intentions. Frequently, you’ll discover that the intent behind the criticism was constructive and was offered in an effort to help.”
Perry M. Christensen
Be Swift to Hear, Slow to Wrath
“When we let our emotions dictate a hasty response, we relinquish control of ourselves and of the situation.”
Perry M. Christensen
Don’t Seek Revenge
“When we are offended, feelings of hate, dreams of vengeance, or misguided feelings of righteous indignation poison our minds and spirits. In the end, we are the ones most hurt. On the other hand, continued Bishop Peterson, “forgiveness of others for wrongs—imaginary or real—often does more for the forgiver than for the forgiven.”
Elder H. Burke Peterson
Seek Reconciliation
“Jesus wanted to fortify the disciples’ testimonies and build a firm foundation that would withstand all offenses. ‘These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended,’ he said.”
John 16:1
I pray during this time of continued social distancing and Home centered / Church supported worship we can find ways to better ourselves, build a stronger individual relationship with our Savior, and learn how to truly minister to our families and friends. What a blessing it is to be living in this beautiful neighborhood sanctuary, protected from some of the toils of the world.
I’m so thankful to have such a wonderful and supportive family. I express my gratitude to my beautiful wife, Heather who has and is standing by my side through our trials. I’m grateful for my Savior and the comfort he sends to us which allow us to learn and feel of his love. Through all of this, I have a stronger testimony of Christ and the power His atonement in my life.
We love you all,
- Bishop Anderson
- “Stay Humble, Work Hard, & Be Kind”
- Ward Blog: www.highland28th.org
Message from the Sunday School Presidency: Attached
Message from the Missionary Committee: President Treadway, President of the Utah Orem Mission is recommending that the full-time missionaries give and receive service in the following ways:
- Zoom meeting with members
- In-person meetings outdoors (front porch, for example) with proper social distancing
- Though they are not meeting in homes for dinner, they can receive meals at their place
So…
If you have not met with the missionaries in the past few weeks, please call them at (385) 269-1628 to schedule a time. – Kendall Thurman