The Gift of the Atonement

Christmas was awesome! I love this season, for I love how all of Christendom is turned towards Jesus Christ more than they typically would be. Reflecting on this matchless gift, our Savior, I found myself focusing on specific things He has given us. The greatest of them all, is the Atonement. The Atonement consists of His suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane, the death on the cross on Golgotha, and His triumph over the grave as He was resurrected from the tomb of Arimathea. We cannot begin to fathom the depths or the importance of this selfless gift.
The Atonement was requisite to the plan of salvation our Eternal Father in Heaven set forth for His children. The scripture goes, "For it is expedient that an atonement should be made; for according to the great plan of the Eternal God there must be an atonement made, or else all mankind must unavoidably perish; yea, all are hardened and are lost, and must perish except it be through the atonement which it is expedient should be made." (Alma 34:9) Without the Atonement, we would all unavoidably perish. There would be no eternal life, there would be no remission of sins, there would be no joy, and we would never again step foot into the presence of that God who gave us life. Simple as that.
Have you ever felt the indescribable joy of divine forgiveness? There is nothing sweeter. As Alma, a Book of Mormon prophet, told his son, "And oh, what joy, and what marvelous light I did behold; yea, my soul was filled with joy as exceeding as was my pain! Yea, I say unto you, my son, that there could be nothing so exquisite and so bitter as were my pains. Yea, and again I say unto you, my son, that on the other hand, there can be nothing so exquisite and sweet as was my joy." (Alma 36:20-21) I add my testimony to that of Alma's. There is nothing so sweet as the joy of knowing He remembers them no more. This could not be without the Atonement. For it brings to pass the condition of repentance. (Helaman 14:18) A gift we will be eternally indebted to have received.
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! I hope you ate well, laughed a ton, and spent it with those you love. I invite you to remember this Divine gift: The Atonement of our Lord. It is the gift that keeps on giving. And it is above the riches of the earth. Never allow yourself to take it for granted or treat it lightly. I will be eternally grateful for it. And I know it to be just and true. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Love Elder Hill

What is sacred to you?

What is important to you? Your family? Your friends? Think about something that is most sacred to you. Got it? Alright. Now, I wanna talk about something that is sacred to a hero of mine.
Nephi was commanded to keep a record of the history of his people, and of their dealings with God. He loved the Lord and was ready to keep any commandment given. He really didn't know why he was, other than the Lord had a wise purpose for it. He declared, "I do not write anything upon plates save it be that I think it be sacred." (1 Nephi 19:6) Everything that Nephi wrote down, he viewed it as something of great importance. They were sacred to him. He went to great lengths to preserve and protect this record. He told his predecessors that, "They shall not occupy these plates with things which are not of worth unto the children of men." (1 Nephi 6:6) That is what the Word of God meant to him.
What Nephi said following the declaration of the sacredness of this record really hit me. He said, "For the things which some men esteem to be of great worth, both to the body and soul, others set at naught and trample under their feet." (1 Nephi 19:7) It is obvious that Nephi viewed the Book of Mormon as something of great worth. That is not a secret. And he knew that people would set this sacred record of something as naught, and would completely and entirely take it for granted. The Lord has repeatedly warned His Saints for doing this. The early members of the Church, following her restoration, did that from time to time. And the Lord through His Prophet, rebuked them for it. That is what this record meant to God.
I have gained a deep testimony and love for this other Testament, the Book of Mormon. It means everything to me. It is sacred to me. Why? Because it contains the words of Christ. This little blue book, physically, won't do anything for you. Except maybe provide a perfect coaster for your hot cocoa on the table. But in it you will find the doctrine behind eternal life. The message it contains is powerful. It is life changing. I know I have piped this before, but never take it for granted. Read it. Ask God if it is His word. Then, by His Spirit, you will know that it is true. This witness will make it sacred to you.
I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

I love the Scriptures!

So the other morning I was reading in the Book of Mormon. The apartment was quiet, the heat was on, and I just finished a bowl of Chocolate Marshmallow Mateys. Life at this point, is awesome. I came across a scripture that really struck a chord with me. Seemingly impossible, life got even better. This verse reads, "...whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead them away to destruction." (1 Nephi 15:24) This testimony is given by one of my personal favorite Prophets from the Book of Mormon, Nephi. I paused momentarily, then continued on as the Spirit filled my soul. The next verse reads, "Wherefore, I, Nephi, did exhort them to give heed unto the word of the Lord; yea, I did exhort them with all the energies of my soul, and with all the faculty which I possessed, that they would give heed to the word of God and remember to keep his commandments always in all things." Nephi has an incredible amount of love for the Word of God. The record that he kept, which we now have, he went to great lengths to preserve and protect. This record was everything to him! Why is that? One may ask. Well, here's why, "...they are the words of Christ, and he hath given them unto me; and they teach all men that they should do good." (2 Nephi 33:10) Jesus Christ is OUR everything. The scriptures, are His words. They teach us what we should do. They strenghten our faith in Him. And they can calm the greatest tempest within our souls. I love the Word of God. I love the Book of Mormon which I know without a shadow of a doubt IS another Testament of Jesus Christ. In these words I find myself. I find peace. And I find the Son of the living God to be more real than I could ever imagine. My friends, feast upon the words of Christ. So many men have risked everything so that we could access them so easily. They are true. And I can promise you that you will 'draw nearer to God by abiding by it's precepts.' Please don't ever allow yourself to take them for granted. I know that I never will. Jesus Christ lives! Read about Him. That promise Nephi gave his brothers in verse 24, is applicable to you and I. I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

Charity: the Pure Love of Christ

"And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing." (1 Corinthians 13:2) What is charity? According to the Book of Mormon Prophet Moroni, it is 'the pure love of Christ.' This pure love of Christ, 'endures forever.' Love is an eternal principle. And our Father gave us the greatest example of this love by sending His Son, Jesus Christ.
The children of Israel were taught to, "love thy neighbor as thyself." (Leviticus 19:18) But this law, as were most of the laws constituting the Law of Moses, was superseded by the coming of the Savior. He gave His disciples a new commandment, which was to, "love one another; as I have loved you." (John 13:34) Greater love has no man than the Savior for us. He was our greatest example in all things. Especially in love for God's children.
The commandment is to love others as He loves us. So how exactly do we do that? Moroni suggests that we, "pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love." (Moroni 7:48) That is the first step. Another suggestion, study the scriptures fervantly. Learn just how much the Master loves YOU personally. The learning of that love will instill a desire to emulate it towards others.
Another, look at people through the eyes of God. My favorite example is that of David in the Old Testament. The people looked at him as just a child. But they were reminded, "the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7) In our lives we will clash with other's personalities. It is inevitable. But that is no reason for you to love them any less. Take a minute and look at them through the eyes of God. Doing so will hep us to be more patient and uderstanding. Remember, God loves all of His children more than we can imagine. That sometimes stubborn child, is just as loved as His most devoted servant. What a great example for us. 
Moroni teaches us, "charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things." (Moroni 7:45) Those are the attributes of the pure love of Christ. They were manifested in every action, and word of the Savior. Pray with all of your heart to receive this love, then act with all of your power to manifest it. "By this shall men know that ye are my disciples." (John 13:35)
I wish to conclude where I began. If we have not charity, we are nothing. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

Remember Lot's Wife

"Remember Lot's wife." (Luke 17:32) Without going into a lot of detail, I wish to explain the meaning behind this statement made by the Savior Himself.
Lot and his family were commanded to leave Sodom and Gomorrah. Wickedness prevailed, and after countless warnings by the Lord's servants, it came time to destroy it. And destroy He did. The city was leveled. As Lot and his family left their 'old life,' they were commanded not to look back. Unfortunately, Lot's wife's heart remained in that once great city. We presume this because of her longing look towards their abandoned home and plentiful belongings. This action brought the punishment that was promised. She was destroyed with the city.
The Savior reminded His disciples of this tragic event to teach them a lesson. As we follow Christ, we are to do so with full purpose of heart. To truly follow Him, repentance and the accompanied sanctification is prerequisite. Sanctification comes from "yielding our hearts unto God." (Helaman 3:35) As we yield our hearts unto God, we desire to walk away from our old lives and never look back. Paul taught, "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." (Romans 6:4) My friends, true and enduring happiness comes from yielding our hearts unto God. This I have a personal testimony of. The only way we can sincerely follow Him is to walk away from our old lives. We cannot look book. If we dwell on our past, we cannot turn away from our old life. Nephi, a Prophet from the Book of Mormon, declared, "Awake, my soul! No longer droop in sin. Rejoice, o my heart, and give place no more for the enemy of my soul." (2 Nephi 4:28) If we continue to look back at our old lives, we are giving place for the enemy of our souls.
If we have sinned, we can repent and come unto Christ. Follow Him with full purpose of heart. Be born again. Walk in a newness of life. Sanctify yourself. I can promise you that if you will, He will receive you. And there, in His arms, we will receive a fullness of joy. Isn't that what we all want?
Forgive me for the short length, but I hope that you will recommit yourself to follow the Savior. Here are only a few ways we can truly do so. I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill   

My Testimony

I love to hear others share what God has done for them. Hearing my fellow man, on the same journey I am on, bear witness of the reality and divinity of Jesus Christ, strengthens my own faith in Him.
The other day I was reading in the 14th chapter of the book of Acts. It gives the account of Paul calling together the members of the Church in Antioch, and there recounting all that the Lord had done with them in preaching the Gospel to the Gentiles. I don't know about you, but I would love to have heard the Apostle Paul share his conversion story, and his testimony of the purifying power of Gethsemane. In other words, the change the Gospel has had on his life. Like Paul, I too wish to share with you my testimony.
I grew up a member of this Church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Never once did I doubt it, countless times I took it for granted. I enjoyed the Book of Mormon. It's teachings, and the stories contained were wonderful to me. But not well understood. My copy rested on my headboard and collected a fair amount of dust. Regardless, I had many occasions where the restored Gospel brought intense amounts of joy. Entering into the House of the Lord and there receiving the ordinances that will enable my family to be bound for all eternity, was the greatest moment of my life. The Spirit of God was there in great abundance. In my heart I knew that my God smiled from His courts above on my little family. I will never forget that day. Shortly thereafter life went on. The Spiritual high, unfortunately, came to an end. High school and it's various activities encompassed my every thought. My relationship with my Savior, was unrealized. The most sincere prayers uttered were from the batter's box of a baseball field, or from the free throw line in a win or lose situation. Nevertheless, I knew these things to be true. And I chose to go on a mission shortly after graduating high school. There, like Paul, I saw the God of Heaven and Earth work miracles in the hearts of men. Especially, in mine.
After being a missionary for almost a year, now, I have come to realize some eternal truths. First, I've realized this, which can be summarized in the 16th verse of John chapter 3. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." God loves ALL of His children. He has used me and other missionaries around me to reach out to people in need, and bring the love of God into their life. His Son, was a difficult sacrifice for Him to make. That sacrifice, was the greatest act of love ever committed on this planet. I know that He suffered for my sins, and for yours. The agony felt in the Garden and on the cross also included our every pain. His Atonement has brought incomprehensible amounts of blessings and strength into my life. The love of God changes lives. I know, because it has changed mine.
I have been deeply humbled by realizing my weaknesses. Far more important than that, I now know that He has given us the strength and means needed to overcome them. I am nothing without my Savior. With Him, I can accomplish all that He desires of me to do.
I know that Joseph Smith was called of God to be a Prophet in these, the latter days. He went through great amounts of suffering to do the work of the Lord. The Book of Momon, which he translated by the gift and power of God, is the word of God. It contains the words of Christ. As we treasure up these words, He becomes more real in our lives. Peace and love settle in the places in our souls where pain once resided. If you believe in Christ, you will believe in the Book of Mormon, for it testifies of Him.
I am now 20 years old. My greatest desire is to be a Man of God. I know what it takes to become such, and I will do anything to achieve it. I am happy while living the principles of the Gospel. This joy, 'no man taketh from me.' I will be eternally greatful for this mission. My faith is becoming unshakeable. And I am finally converting to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This Gospel is, the pearl of great price. And the Savior, is my everything. I love Him. And when I stand before His judgment bar I hope with all of my heart that He says, "Well done thou good and faithful servant. Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." These words I have spoken, are true. The Spirit of God, the Spirit of TRUTH, has born witness of them in my heart. As you open yours, He will do the same for you. I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

The Rock of Our Redeemer

The Wise man built his house upon the rock, and the rains came tumbling down. The rains came down and the floods came up, and the house on the rock stood still. The foolish man, built his house upon the sand. Again, the rains came tumbling down. The rains came down, the floods came up, and the house on the sand washed away. This story, illustrated in a southern folk song, carries a wonderful Gospel truth. And will be my topic of discussion today.
My favorite scripture of all time is found in the Book of Mormon. It's in the 5th chapter of Helaman, and is verse 12. It reads, "And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall." What a powerful testimony given by a Prophet of God. One of which I know with all of my heart to be true. Eternal joy is found in living the principles of the Gospel, and standing worthy for the windows of heaven to be opened bringing the Lord's choicest blessings. I turned 20 years old a week ago today. That day I reflected on what I wanted to accomplish in the next decade. Every single goal, ambition, and desire I have for my future will be built upon the rock, or foundation of Jesus Christ and His teachings.
Trials and tribulations come. The adversary will be striking at our every weakness. But just as Jesus Christ who was tempted by the serpant himself, we do not have to succombe. And as we build our lives on the teachings of Jesus Christ, we receive the strength needed to combat those fiery darts. Putting on the full armour of God, as Paul illustrates in Ephesians chapter 6, holds the same principle as building our lives on the foundation of Christ.
So how can YOU build your life on His foundation? Ever thought about that? Here are some suggestions:

1. Study the life of Christ. Find out who He was. Then, copy and paste His attributes to your own self.
2. Live your life in such a way that you can be guided by the Spirit of truth, or, the Holy Ghost to that which is right.
3. Think about who God wants you to become. Set goals. Have a vision of a better, more Christlike you, then do anything to achieve it. If we don't strive to become something, we will become nothing. That desire to improve, founded upon the teachings and life of Christ, will help you stand strong and unwavering when a shaft in the whirlwind comes your way.
4. Have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. That faith, will move mountains. Or, will help you stand firm as a mountain.
5. Finally, live the greatest commandment of all: Love the Lord your God. The Apostle John taught us, There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear. (1 John 4:18) If you are full of love for the Savior, there will be no room for fear.

These are just a few suggestions. The principles of this can vary, but the doctrine is set in stone. A life built on Christ will not fall. The very gates of hell may gape at you, but as long as you stand strong, you will come off conqueror. This I know to be true. Christ lives. Eternal joy and purpose is found in His Gospel; the Gospel preached in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

The Purpose of the Word of God

This year we celebrated the 400th anniversary of the King James Version of the Holy Bible. "It is not by chance or coincidence that we have the Bible today,” said Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. “Men like John Wycliffe, the courageous William Tyndale, and Johannes Gutenberg were prompted against much opposition to translate the Bible into language people could understand and to publish it in books people could read. I believe even the scholars of King James had spiritual promptings in their translation work." The blessings and truths that flow from this miraculous record are innumerable. Many gave their lives in preserving it. Something that came with so great a cost must be important, right? So what is the purpose of the scriptures?
The Apostle John taught us that, "...these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believeing ye might have life through his name." (John 20:31) The Old and New Testament were written, so that we may come to know that Jesus is the Son of the living God. Many generations of mankind never had the privilege of sitting at His feet listening to the greatest sermons ever uttered. Countless others have never witnessed a single miracle He so lovingly performed. Personally, I never walked the streets of Jerusalem at His side. Though, salvation for all comes only in and through Jesus Christ. We must have faith in that eternal principle! That is why scripture has been provided. We can read it, feel the Spirit of the Lord testify of the truth, and come to know for ourselves that He truly lives. Because the Word of God is so invaluable, why would we shun more of it?
The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ. It is a record of Holy scripture comparable to the Bible. It is a record of God’s dealings with the ancient inhabitants of the Americas and contains the fulness of the everlasting gospel. Faith in Jesus Christ is paramount to finding true and eternal happiness, and solace in an upheaving world. Our Father in Heaven loves us. And He has given us more scripture to ensure us that Jesus is the Christ. I know this to be true with all of my heart. The Book of Mormon, as does the Bible, teaches us who Jesus Christ really was. And the role He has in the salvation of mankind. I love the scriptures and I am overwhelmed by the blessings they pour into my life. God lives. And Jesus is the Christ. Please, read the Word of God and come to know this for yourself. It is of upmost importance. I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

The Spirit of God like a fire is burning



One of my favorite Latter-day Saints hymns starts with the phrase, "The Spirit of God like a fire is burning." Growing up that has always been one of my favorite songs. As I have progressed in the Gospel, the topic of that song has grown closer to me as well.
The Spirit of God has many titles, such as: Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Comforter, and the Spirit of truth. An Apostle from our Church teaches us that, "The Holy Ghost is manifested to men on the earth both as the power of the Holy Ghost and as the gift of the Holy Ghost. The power can come upon one before baptism, and is the convincing witness that the gospel is true. It gives one a testimony of Jesus Christ and of his work and the work of his servants upon the earth. The gift can come only after proper and authorized baptism, and is conferred by the laying on of hands, as in Acts 8:12-25 and Moroni 2:1-3. The gift of the Holy Ghost is the right to have, whenever one is worthy, the companionship of the Holy Ghost. More powerful than that which is available before baptism, it acts as a cleansing agent to purify a person and sanctify him from all sin. Thus it is often spoken of as “fire.”
What a blessing it is to have the Spirit of the Lord with us at all times! Our Savior teaches us in John chapter 14 verse 18, "I will not leave you comfortless." He said this to His Apostles, who, were beginning to realize that He would soon be leaving them. I cannot imagine how it would be to walk the streets of Jerusalem with the greatest life known to mankind. Far more unfathomable than that, to be told that He will be leaving you shortly. I caught a glimpse of that longing as I walked away from my family nine months ago. Just as the Savior had to depart His beloved desciples, I too had to walk away from my family's loving embrace. It was tough. But the Comforter, filled my heart with peace. I felt the love my Father in Heaven had for me and I received the strength that I needed to serve my Lord for two years. I could not do this without the Spirit in my life. I would not want to.
The Gift of the Holy Ghost is a remarkable blessing that is Heaven sent. It is a prime example of the love our Father in Heaven has for us. And a helpmate to this long and winding road of life. I am so grateful for it. God lives. This I know. Jesus is the Christ. They love us. And I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

No Fear

Nephi, a Prophet from the Book of Mormon, was an amazing man of God. He had incredible faith and as you learn more about him, you can't help but love the guy. For the incredible man that he was, he exhibits a large amount of humility by admitting, "I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things." Those familiar with Nephi's history know that he gave up so much to do the will of the Lord. Never once did he question or complain. Willingly and confidently he relied on the Lord, doing all that was required of him. And right here he admits that he does not know everything. It is so easy to question or refrain from doing the will of the Lord because we do not understand. That is the easy way out. But as I read the chapter where Nephi admits this, a verse from the New Testament came to mind.
"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us." (1 John 4:18-19) Nephi knew the amount of love that God had for him. In return, he loved the Lord with every fiber of his being. Perfect love really does cast out all fear. As a missionary my faith has been tried and tested. It would be easy to succombe to fear. Fear, that what I am proclaiming to people is not true. I know of the love that my Savior has for me. I feel it and see it every day. And I love the Master with all of my heart. Because of this love, I do not fear. I, like Nephi, do not understand everything. But this I do know, God loves all of His children. I have complete faith in Him. The restored Gospel of Jesus Christ is both real and heaven sent. I do not doubt it.
Do not fear because you do not understand. The questions we have will be answered. Another Prophet from the Book of Mormon, Moroni, teaches us, "dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith." (Ether 12:6) Love Jesus Christ with all of your heart. Do the things that would make both He and our Father in Heaven proud. Follow Him in faith and love. One day, we will understand all things. But as for now, have no fear. I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

Be ye therefore perfect ...wait. What?

There is a profound difference between doing, and becoming. When I was a little chap, I loved saying "what I wanted to be when I grew up." I wanted to be a train conducter! I wanted to be the dude who was in control of those magnificent locomotives. How sweet would that be? Aside from careers, what do we want to be when we grow up? Who do we want to become?
Our Savior teaches us what we need to become in the Sermon on the Mount. He tells us to, "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." Sweet Baby Ray's barbecue sauce! I have got some work to do! So how in the world do we become perfect? Only the Son of God was perfect! Alright lets take a deep breath and take a step back for a minute. We must focus on what we need to become, rather than what we need to do. Checklists are easy. We can live the commandments that God has given us daily, but unless we are growing and becoming the sons and daughters of God that we need to be, it availeth us nothing. That is the difference between doing, and becoming. Let's face it. We cannot become perfect while in mortality. We will inevitably slip up! But Christ teaches us that if we live the laws and ordinances of the Gospel, we will receive eternal life. There we have the capabilities of becoming perfect, as the Master teaches us that we must be. That is what we want to become. James E. Talmage, a modern-day Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ gives a great analogy of this. "A college student in his freshman or sophomore year may be perfect as freshman or sophomore; his record may possibly be a hundred percent on the scale of efficiency and achievement; yet the honors of the upper classman are beyond him, and the attainment of graduation is to him remote, but of assured possibility, if he do but continue faithful and devoted to the end."
My friends, we cannot find ourselves focusing on the to-do lists. We need to have a vision of what we want to become, and focus on achieving it. Perfection is the end result we should seek. This is only found in and through the Savior of the World. But while we are in our "freshman" years, we can get straight-a's!  My prayer is that of Lynn G. Robbins, a General Authority of our faith, "May your efforts to develop Christlike attributes be successful so that His image may be engraven in your countenance and His attributes manifest in your behavior." I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

Anything like you, Dad

So when I found out I was going to serve a mission in Tennessee, I figured I better start listening to country music. It was tough at first, I admit. Many a time I threw in some Def Leppard to avoid insanity. Okay okay it wasn't that bad... During my country music extravaganza, I came across a song I quite enjoyed. The title is "Anything Like Me" by Brad Paisley. Seeing that it is the illustrious occasion of Father's day today, I want to talk about my old man. And the significance of that song.
"...I started wondering who he was going to be, and I thought heaven help us if he's anything like me. He'll probably climb a tree too tall and ride his bike too fast, end up every summer wearin' something in a cast. He's gonna throw a ball and break some glass, in a window down the street. He's gonna get in trouble, he's gonna get in fights. I'm gonna lose my temper and some sleep. It's safe to say that I'm gonna get my payback, if he's anything like me." There is no way of hiding it, I fit most if not all of the criteria spoken of in this song. And from the glimpse of my father's childhood that has been exposed, he was not that different. The man my father has become, is the man I hope to someday be. If you know my dad, you love him. He is the unsung hero of my childhood. Many sacrifices were made so that I and my family could have a great life. The Master was the ultimate example of who we should strive to be like. And trying to match my characteristics of that of my dad's will bring me closer to being like the Savior of the world. My dad is my rock, and I know that I can always count on him. He has never given up on me. How he is to my mom is how I know I must treat my future spouse. No exceptions. He is a hard worker, and never complains. He always puts my sister and I before himself. I love my dad, more than anything. I respect him, more than anyone. And I will not stop until I have become the man of God whom I need to be. Hoping to someday be like him. Happy Father's day dad. Thank you for everything. Your love and your laughs have had eternal signifiance on me. I will always be grateful for that. Happy father's day to the rest of the dads out there. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

What matters most

Alright so I've said it once, and I'll say it again. I really enjoy cars. Particularly Mustangs. They're sweet! But unfortunately, they don't last forever. At first they look like this Blue work of art shown above. Then, over time, they fade, they break down, and they rust. Eventually they do run out of miles. Somewhere down the line, they look like the sad delapidated classic on the stand.
A scripture from the New Testament comes to mind. Our Savior teaches us in my most favorite sermon He delivered, the sermon on the mount, (found in Matthew 6:19-21,) "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." My treasure is my family. And the doctrine of eternal families that was restored to God's Kingdom on earth ensures me that I will be with them forever. That my friends, is where my heart is. Besides my Savior, they are what matters most.
It is easy to set our hearts on the things of the world. These beloved worldy things aren't always bad things! But if we are not careful, they can take priority over what matters most. Ask yourself if this treasure on earth is eternal. Or if it will go with you past the grave and past the sentinels into the Kingdom of our Eternal Father. Never forget what matters most.
Someone I have grown to love and admire once taught me that we should center our lives around Christ and His Gospel. When we do that, everything else will fall into place or fall out of our lives. Don't be mistaken, I am guilty of this at times. But being a servant of the Master has helped me realize the true order of our priorities in mortality. And I am striving to put my life in the order it should be in. Doing so has brought me a lot of happiness. Happiness that doesn't end at the grave. I love you all and I council you to take a step back and think about what really does matter most. This is my treasure. Stay classy.
Elder Hill





We love our "Goofy" dads!

Anybody else love A Goofy Movie? I know that I sure do! It's a classic! I was a wee little whippersnapper when that movie came out. It will always be one of the greatest stories ever about a loving father and his son. And since Father's day is coming up in a few weeks, this is a great topic. If I do say so myself.
The record titled the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ begins by giving an account of a family in Jerusalem. The father, Lehi, receives council from the Lord to take his family out of Jerusalem because it was going to be destroyed. Well, Lehi and his family were very wealthy and had many temporal blessings. So when he broke the news to his family, you can imagine the response he received. Much like Max in our beloved Disney classic, many of his sons weren't too keen on their father's plans and they thought that he was a bit, well, goofy. One son, a valiant man of God named Nephi, had faith in his father and was willing to leave his home and follow. By no means was it easy on him, but his love and respect for the Lord and his father superseded all doubt.
Lehi was a great man. More than that, a Prophet. And he taught his sons how to walk in the ways of the Lord. Not all followed, sadly. But Nephi did. And he went on to do many great things and the first two books in the compilation of the Book of Mormon were written by his hand. In them we learn so many amazing truths about our Master, Jesus Christ. Without Nephi, we wouldn't have these other prescious words about Him.  Lehi had a profound impact on his son's life. And as you read the account, you truly can sense the love Nephi had for his dad.
I love my dad and I will be eternally grateful for the things that he has taught me. He, as Lehi, has taught me how to walk in the ways of the Lord. And he too has had a profound impact on my life. I love him! Never forget what our father's have taught us. Be grateful for them. Love them! And as Nephi, be willing to follow. Even if they are a little Goofy. I love you all. And I love my old man. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

Oh yeah. I'm a momma's boy!

I will never forget the worst football game of my life. I was a freshman in High School, which seems like a lifetime ago, but I can remember it like it was yesterday. We got to the field and within a few minutes it was pouring rain. The cold, October rain of Idaho. Oh yeah. Freezing. After the pre-soaking, the unforgiving wind drove the bitter cold straight to the bone. The rain turned to sleet, then to snow, then to sleet, then to snow, then to rain, so on so forth. Long story short, we were freezing! And right before death ensued (slight exaggeration there,) the unsung heroes rose to the occasion. A few of the player's moms, mine included, came down to the field to provide slight shelter with their umbrellas. Umbrellas are useless in horizontal rain, mind you. But they still held the pitiful covering in the air, trying to shelter a handful of freezing players. Hardly any spectators remained, beside these few brave and loving moms. I will never forget this experience. It has left a lasting impression on my soul. I don't think it should necessitate a holiday to remember and appreciate the mothers in our lives, personally. My favorite example of the impact of mothers comes from the scriptures. In Alma chapter 56, it talks about a group of young men. Not just any young men, remarkable men of God. Men who gained untold amounts of strengh form their moms. It reads, "And now I say unto you, my beloved brother Moroni, that never had I seen so great courage, nay, not amongst all the Nephites. For as I had ever called them my sons (for they were all of them very young) even so they said unto me: Father, behold our God is with us, and he will not suffer that we should fall; then let us go forth; we would not slay our brethren if they would let us alone; therefore let us go, lest they should overpower the army of Antipus. Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them. And they rehearsed unto me the words of their mothers, saying: We do not doubt our mothers knew it." These valiant, young, men of God received their faith and strength from their mothers. I have learned many great things from my Ma. I love her to death and I am grateful for everything that she does for me. Mothers, never forget the impact you have on your children. And to everyone else, never forget your moms. I will never forget that day with the umbrella.. I love you all. Stay classy. (I still don't know how they got this picture of me and my companions.)
Elder Hill

the Gospel of Jesus Christ: the coach to the family

As much as I hate Duke, I cannot help but love Coach K. The man can coach! Duke, inevitably, produces an excellent basketball team. And Coach K is the mastermind behind it all. So where in the world is Elder Hill going with this analogy? Stay tuned, my friends.
In today's society, the family is under attack. Divorce is becoming more common than a lasting marriage. And that is sad! I love my family. There I find peace and refuge from the crazy world we live in. They are my support. Besides my Savior, they are the only rock that I have. The message we as missionaries teach is that the Gospel of Jesus Christ blesses families. When all else fails, it is the only thing that can save a family's relationship. This I have a testimony of. When a family is living in accordance to the Gospel, they are powerful.
Coach K has pulled the Blue Devils through some tough times. He is their rock. He holds the team together, and leads them on to victory. He is calm under pressure, and never loses his cool. Jesus Christ's Gospel does the same for the family. It unites us in our path of following Him. Ultimate joy and happiness is the victory. And the Gospel leads the family, our team, past the opposition unfailingly. I have seen this for myself and I will be eternally grateful for it. I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

Jesus Christ: the power behind God's plan

I, love, cars. I really do. Ever since I was a little kid I have been extremely fascinated with how they work. I took three years of auto mechanics in high school and I just had a passion for engines and what makes them tick. It is no surprise that they have the greatest amount of importance in the anatomy of an automobile. They make the thing go! Some MUCH faster than others, but that is totally irrelavant to the topic. To the question I posed in the title, what do engines have to do with Jesus Christ?
God, our Eternal Father in Heaven, has a plan for each and every one of us. This plan includes: what we need to do in this life, and where we go in the hereafter. This plan has many different names. Such as, "the Plan of Happiness," the "Plan of Salvation," and so on. Whatever the title, it is the plan that, when followed, allows us to return to live with our Father in Heaven again. Let's shift gears (clever analogy) and break it down. There is a scripture in the Book of Mormon that talks specifically about the purpose for this life. It is found in Alma chapter 34, and it is verse 32. It reads, "For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors." These labors spoken of here, are the ordinances of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Which are first, faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism for the remission of sins, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, and enduring to the end. These are the things we need to do to in this life to prepare to meet God. So where does Jesus Christ fit in to all of this? Jesus Christ is what enables us to "perform our labors." If it weren't for Him we could not be cleansed of our sins. When He suffered for us, He took upon Him our sins and provided a way for us to be cleansed of them. He was baptized by someone holding the Priesthood authority of God, paving the way for us to be baptized. See the importance of our Savior Jesus Christ? He is what propells His Father's plan. Without Him, it would go nowhere. Christ is everything. He has eternal significance with each and every one of us individually. He lives. This I know! I love Him so much. My friends, never forget how important Jesus Christ is. If you have any questions about this plan, which I hope you do, message me on Facebook and I would love to help. I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

The same yesterday, today, and forever!

Hello again! The other day my companions and I met this really nice guy and we had quite the conversation with him. He made a comment that really struck me as odd. He doesn't believe in modern-day revelation and he believes that the "heavens are shut." He told us that he felt like after Christ and His apostles, God no longer spoke to His children. Why in the world would a loving Heavenly Father shun thousands of years of His children from hearing the word of God?? The Bible doesn't fill us in with all of the facts, my friends. We must have more! And we do!
In Hebrews 13:8, it reads, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever." If this is true, the fact that we have a living Prophet on the earth today to lead and guide the followers of Christ is no strange phenomenon. In the Book of Mormon, a Prophet named Moroni 400 years after the ascension of the Christ to Heaven, says this about the subject, "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, have miracles ceased because Christ hath ascended into heaven, and hath sat down on the right hand of God, to claim of the Father his rights of mercy which he hath upon the children of men? For he hath answered the ends of the law, and he claimeth all those who have faith in him; and they who have faith in him will cleave unto every good thing; wherefore he advocateth the cause of the children of men; and he dwelleth eternally in the heavens. And because he hath done this, my beloved brethren, have miracles ceased? Behold I say unto you, Nay; neither have angels ceased to minister unto the children of men."
My friends, God still speaks to us. This is more evidence of His love for us. What a great blessing it is to know that the Heavens are not shut. This I have a testimony of! Christ will never change. And neither will His Gospel. He lives! I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

America! And the visit from the Son of God

The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ. The climax in this miraculous record of scripture is when Christ appears to the people here in the Americas, fulfilling the long awaited prophecy of His visit. Many skeptics of the Book of Mormon do not believe that Christ would make such an appearance. This is what I want to talk about in this particular blog.
During Christ's mortal ministry, He, as described in Luke chapter 8 verse 1, "went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the Kingdom of God: and the twelve were with Him." That is what Christ did! He was out among the people teaching, healing, and inviting all to come follow Him. He could have sat back and had His apostles go out preaching the Gospel, but He, exhibiting His incomprehensible love for His spirit brothers and sisters, went out Himself. As you read the four Gospels, the characteristics of Christ become more apparent. Preaching the Gospel is what Christ did. So why not do it with the people in the Americas? God is not a partial God or a respecter of persons. He loves all of His children the very same. So why would He keep His children in the western hemisphere from seeing the long awaited coming of the Messiah? You better believe all of God's prophets prophecied of His coming! And they, the saints in the Americas, got to spend a short period of time with Him, thus fulfilling the prophecy. Cool eh?
Does it talk about His visit to the Americas in the Bible? In John chapter ten verse 16, Christ teaches that, "And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd." There lies the evidence, my friends. There were plenty of scattered sheep in the Americas.
When it all boils down to it, did Christ really need to visit many groups of people across the world after the close of His earthly mission? No. His atonement was infinite and universal. But who of us is worthy of telling Chirst what He can and cannot do? To me, it shows the personal love and awareness the Savior has for us all. I know that He lives and loves us all so much. The Book of Mormon is the Word of God. Christ DID visit the people in the promised land. This testimony I leave with you. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

:The instance of Christ visiting the Americas begins in the 3rd book of Nephi beginning in chapter 11. Read it!!

Moroni is the man, man!

As a kid, I looked at Chipper Jones as being the greatest man to step foot on a baseball field. He was my hero! He was and still is a great baseball player, but I viewed him as being immortal! Typical for a young kid, I would say. I still like the guy, but the whole "immortal" status is gone. My dad, is a hero of mine. For good reason! Captain Kirk (my paps) is the man. Many of my close family and influencial people in my life I view as heros as well. One in particular comes from the Book of Mormon. His name, is Captain Moroni.
Captain Moroni was a man of God. He led the armies to many victories that, statistically, they never should have won. The scriptures say that, "Moroni was a strong and a mighty man; he was a man of a perfect understanding; yea, a man that did not delight in bloodshed; a man whose soul did joy in the liberty and the freedom of his country, and his brethren from bondage and slavery; Yea, a man whose heart did swell with thanksgiving to his God, for the many privileges and blessings which he bestowed upon his people; a man who did labor exceedingly for the welfare and safety of his people. Yea, and he was a man who was firm in the faith of Christ, and he had sworn with an oath to defend his people, his rights, and his country, and his religion, even to the loss of his blood." Moroni was a real person. He was not a fictitious character or a well thought up hero for this miraculous literature. He was a profound example for a young man such as I. Matter of fact, for anyone! His life and his faith is reflected in this, my favorite verse, "Yea, verily, verily I say unto you, if all men had been, and were, and ever would be, like unto Moroni, behold, the very powers of hell would have been shaken forever; yea, the devil would never have power over the hearts of the children of men." I am going to live a life that someday, someone, will say the same thing about me. That is my goal. The more like Moroni I become, the closer I get to being the man my Father in Heaven and Savior want me to be. Moroni is the man. And quite frankly, you never get to old for having heros. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

And how do YOU know?

I have been blessed tremendously to be raised a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Most of my friends and relatives are members of this great Church as well. That being said, it is obvious to see that I really didn't know any different. I never doubted the things that I believed or practiced. Looking back over the years, I can see how this faith in Jesus Christ and His Gospel has brought me so much happiness. Because I grew up immersed in it, you could say that my testimony was based on other's. As I got older, my faith became less dependent, and more independent. I read the scriptures, lived the Gospel, and asked my Father in Heaven if they were true. Before long, I had my very own testimony in the Restored Gospel and the training wheels were off! A Prophet in the Book of Mormon named Alma, tells his brethren how he gained his testimony. In Alma chapter fives verses 45-46, he explains, "45. And this is not all. Do ye not suppose that I know of these things myself? Behold, I testify unto you that I do know that these things whereof I have spoken are true. And how do ye suppose that I know of their surety? 46. Behold, I say unto you they are made known unto me by the Holy Spirit of God. Behold, I have fasted and prayed many days that I might know these things of myself. And now I do know of myself that they are true; for the Lord God hath made them manifest unto me by his Holy Spirit; and this is the spirit of revelation which is in me."
Gaining a testimony takes work! We must study it out in our mind, and go to our Father in Heaven in fasting and prayer to find out for a surety. This I know with all of my heart.
When I hit the mission field, my faith was put to the test. I didn't waver, but I really did have to realize what I truly believe. And through this 'work' Alma speaks of, I changed my faith to a knowledge. It is very real! The joy that has been brought is indescribable. You can know these things to be true for yourself, if you will do your part and put forth the effort. That is my challenge that I leave with you! I love you all. Stay classy!
Elder Hill

Oh ye shall!

The other day I was digging through my scriptures trying to find an uplifting or motivating scripture I could share with a friend. I found some really good ones, but one really stood out to me and has become a personal favorite. This scripture is found in John chapter 16 and its verse 33. It reads, "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." Notice how Christ says, ye shall? He doesn't say you might or any other form of an indefinite word. He says you will. I don't know why, but it kind of struck me as humorous. When trials come we are often a tad bit surprised. We find ourselves saying, really? Seriously?? Honestly, I do that daily. This probationary state we live in, life, is a test. The point of a test is to teach or provide oppurtunities for growth. Granted I have been graduated for almost a year now, so things may have changed, but I never attributed the word "easy" with most tests that I took. Likewise, life is not easy. It will be challenging at times. We shall face tribulation!
The beautiful reassurance comes at the end of that verse: Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. Our Savior has overcome the most difficult things in life that we couldn't ourselves: death and sin. The rest, though at times one would disagree, we can overcome. And we don't have to do it alone. Christ is always there for us! He is not a 'fairweather fan.' Allow Him into your life. He will help you overcome the trials and tribulations that will inevitably come. This I have a sure testimony of. How? Because I have felt His love and help through difficult phases in my life. I will be eternally grateful for Him! I love you all. Stay classy!
Elder Hill

An Admonition on Hope

Lately, the idea of "hope" has been on my mind a lot. What does hope mean? As a noun, it is described as the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best. Likewise, as a verb it means to look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence. In this life, what do we hope for? As a car crazed teenager, I constantly hoped that Ford would engineer a Mustang that would put the rest to shame. With the beginning of every sports season I hoped that my team would be able to hang a banner of uncompromised victory at the conclusion of the year. Typical things for a teenage boy? Fair enough.
Now as a missionary, understandably, my life has changed. The topics of contemplation and subjects of serious thought have moved to a much weightier subject: Hope for my salvation.
Hope is the driving factor that pulls us through the darkest days of mortality. In the six months that I have been a missionary, it hasn't always been peaches and cream. Far from it on occasion. But the hope that it is not in vain and something good will come shortly has helped pull me through. We must hope that because of Jesus Christ's atonement we can receive a remission of our sins. With every leap of faith we make we have to be hoping that something good will come from it. At the end of the long hallway of life, there must needs be a hope that therein lies eternal life, if we have been faithful. Hope for this, the greatest of all of God's gifts, is so vital. My friends, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of hope. No matter what kind of curveball or fastball life throws at you, if we have hope, we can slug right through it for a base hit. I guess I really didn't realize how important hope is until I came on a mission and put myself subject to such adversity. And now it plays an astronomical part of my work as a disciple of Christ.
Never forget where we are going in this life. Always look at the end result. Once we have done all that we have been commanded by our Father in Heaven to do, press forward and have a hope for the promised gift: Eternal life.
Never lose hope. For, once it is lost, we lose. I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

Let Your Light Shine

I absolutely love the Sermon on the Mount. Christ teaches some AMAZING things in that sermon. Can you imagine being there and hearing it?? Anyways. Pardon my fantasies. One thing that really stood out to me was the call to, "Let your light so shine before men..." The whole parable goes as follows and can be found in Matthew chapter 5. (14. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. (15. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. (16. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Followers of Christ have been given the charge to show the world the amazing blessing that we hold in our possesion. This blessing, meaning, the knowledge of our Savior. We need to be examples to everyone around us. We cannot hide this great treasure. And why would we want to? The world is changing all around us. One thing will never change: That is our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. As His followers we must exemplify His teachings and His doctrine. In the world but not of it, mentality. When we are being Christlike and are doing Christlike things, we are glorifying our Eternal Father who is in Heaven. After all He does for us, are we unable to do that in return?

You never know who is watching you or looking at you as an example. In all places and at all times, be an example of the believers. And NEVER be afraid to let your light within you shine forth.

Stay classy. Elder Hill

Hand in Hand

It has always been amazing to me to see just how much the Book of Mormon supports the Bible. In all reality, it simplifies, expounds, and clarifies the sacred message that the Bible teaches. One example of this comes from the book of Alma. In chapter 7, the Prophet Alma teaches us about the Atonement of our Savior Jesus Christ. It starts in verse 11 and continues on to thirteen. They read: 11. And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people. 12. And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities. 13. Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh that he might take upon him the sins of his people, that he might blot out their transgressions according to the power of his deliverance; and now behold, this is the testimony which is in me.
These verses of scripture mean so much to me. In them we learn more about our Savior Jesus Christ and His mission. And more truth of the Atonement that He went through has been made clear. He literally felt EVERY single pain or emotion that we have or will go through. He knows EXACTLY how we feel. And He does that so he can, like it says in verse 12, know how to comfort us. His care is one of sympathy. Not empathy. Knowing this has pulled me through the most difficult trials I have faced in my life. Even as a missionary. I cannot tell you the profound effect this has had on me. And I learned more about it from the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ.
As you study both, hand in hand, you will see the reality of the statement that I made earlier. It does not in ANY way, shape, or form take anything from the Bible. It builds it up and brings the life changing message of the Gospel in it's entirety straight to your heart.
I love them both so very much and I KNOW without a shadow of a doubt that they both are the word of God. You can come to know this to for yourself! So put it to the test. And let the Savior into your life. I love you all! Stay classy.

Lost and Found

Lately I have been reading a lot out of the New Testament. I love the teachings of our Savior Jesus Christ! In Matthew 10:39, Christ says that, "He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it." This one single statement hit me pretty hard. Being a missionary, we have to forget about ourselves and, in essence, lose ourselves in the work. As we make Christ and His gospel the center of our lives, we will inevitably lose our worldly cares.
It made me think of the General Authorities, or leaders, of our Church. Many of the Apostles we have today had, at one point in time, a profound role in society. Most were highly respected and sought after in their individual fields! But when the call came to be a Disciple of the Savior, they didn't hesitate to throw it away for their new calling. That is love and dedication, my friends. Just as the Apostles Christ called during His ministry, they didn't think twice about what they were leaving behind.
It is amazing to me to see when we center our lives around Christ, everything else will either fall in to place or fall out of our lives. I cannot tell you how happy it makes me to be a full-time servant and representative of Jesus Christ! It's the best! Lose your life for His sake. And you will find it!

The Reason for Being

Today my companion Elder Santos and I had quite an interesting experience, or two. First, we get told that what we believe and base our lives upon is not true. Well, we're used to opposition and it came as no surprise that not everyone will believe what we boldly proclaim. We felt bad that he came to that conclusion, but it didn't change a thing we believe or affect our faith in the restored Gospel. After we left that young man's house we made an attempt to approach this older gentleman and ask if we could share a brief message with him. A simple no would have sufficed, but he carried on to tell us that what we were doing was wrong and we should be ashamed of what we are doing. He proceeded to tell us that we are brain washed and know nothing outside the world of the Mormon faith. That was an assumption, because my companion and I know very well what other respective denominations believe. Both of us coming to the conclusion that we have found the fulness of Jesus Christ's everlasting Gospel and the joy that it brings in this faith. Never did we want to argue with or contend with this gentleman. We respect other's opinions. That being said, we did want to set the record straight in the most polite manner we could deliver the truth. We are out here inviting others to come unto Christ. We DO NOT force anything on anyone and we respect why and how people choose to live their lives. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may. We are out here because we know that what we have is true. And it is very real. It has blessed our lives immensely! And we want others to have it as well. That, my friends, is why we serve our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as His missionaries.