Remember When...

On June 27, 1844, the Mormon Prophet, Joseph Smith, and his brother, Hyrum, were martyred.  Enemies of the Church rallied together and formed an angry mob that violently broke into Carthage Jail -- where the Prophet and a few of his closest friends were being held, under the presumption of safety.  Mormons honor Joseph Smith for a legacy that goes beyond his willingness to die for the cause, but also for what he accomplished in the building up of the Kingdom of God -- during his relatively short life. 

Today I can't help but ponder the life of this Beloved Prophet and all that he did for me. He made sacrifices beyond repair, and he followed the Lord willingly, even when he wanted to give up most. Last night I decided to watch the Joseph Smith: The Restoration movie, and I'm sure glad I did. I bawled. It's a short 62 minute movie, but it changes my life every time I watch it.

The current Prophet of the Mormon Church, Thomas S. Monson, had this to say about Joseph Smith:

"The Father and the Son, Jesus Christ, had appeared to Joseph Smith. The morning of the dispensation of the fulness of times had come, dispelling the darkness of the long generations of spiritual night.

"Volumes have been written concerning the life and accomplishments of Joseph Smith, but for our purposes here today perhaps a highlight or two will suffice: He was visited by the angel Moroni. He translated, from the precious plates to which he was directed, the Book of Mormon, with its new witness of Christ to all the world. He was the instrument in the hands of the Lord through whom came mighty revelations pertaining to the establishment of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In the course of his ministry he was visited by John the Baptist, Moses, Elijah, Peter, James, and John, that the Restoration of all things might be accomplished. He endured persecution; he suffered grievously, as did his followers. He trusted in God. He was true to his prophetic calling. He commenced a marvelous missionary effort to the entire world, which today brings light and truth to the souls of mankind. At length, Joseph Smith died the martyr's death." Ensign, April 1997

I truly believe all of that. Joseph Smith did so much for this future generation. I will only let my heart fill up with gratitude from this day forward. That man is amazing. I cannot wait to meet him in Heaven! ♥

Praise to the Man

Praise to the man who communed with Jehovah! Jesus anointed that Prophet and Seer. Blessed to open the last dispensation, Kings shall extol him, and nations revere. 

Hail to the Prophet, ascended to heaven! Traitors and tyrants now fight him in vain. Mingling with Gods, he can plan for his brethren; Death cannot conquer the hero again. (Chorus) 

Praise to his mem'ry, he died as a martyr; Honored and blest be his ever great name! Long shall his blood, which was shed by assassins, Plead unto heav'n while the earth lauds his fame.
(Chorus) 

Great is his glory and endless his priesthood. Ever and ever the keys he will hold. Faithful and true he will enter his kingdom, Crowned in the midst of the prophets of old.
(Chorus) 

Sacrifice brings forth the blessings of heaven; Earth must atone for the blood of that man. Wake up the world for the conflict of justice. Millions shall know "Brother Joseph" again.
(Chorus)

I have a firm testimony of this gospel. I know it to be true with every fiber in me. I know that Jesus is the Christ, and that he atoned for all sins upon the earth. I know that through the Atonement we can be healed. Not only forgiven, but healed. I know my Heavenly Father loves me unconditionally perfect, and I have to consistently remind myself everyday, that no matter what, His love is the only precious thing to me. I know the Book of Mormon brings peace into the lives of those who read it with intent of knowing the truth. I have seen the miracles it's created in others' lives, and in my own. I promise to myself, and my Heavenly Father that I will testify of this book until my life here on earth ends. Then shall I teach those in the spirit world. This gospel truly does bring joy to my life, and living it fully everyday keeps me happy, positive, and content :) I say these things in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen.


(Information Credit: A Well-Behaved Mormon Woman)