Monday, April 29, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - Doug Ross

We had the opportunity to go to Trek four years ago.  The the following quote was helpful in generating a good discussion with our young family, allowing the Spirit to testify of the power of faith in Christ.
Comparing our day to the pioneer’s, Elder M. Russell Ballard said, (October 2008)

“Our challenges are different today, but they are no less demanding. Instead of angry mobs, we face those who constantly try to defame. Instead of extreme exposure and hardship, we face alcohol and drug abuse, pornography, all kinds of filth, sleaze, greed, dishonesty, and spiritual apathy. Instead of families being uprooted and torn from their homes, we see the institution of the family under attack.
The Lord isn’t asking us to load up a handcart; He’s asking us to fortify our faith. He isn’t asking us to walk across a continent; He’s asking us to walk across the street to visit our neighbor. He isn’t asking us to give all of our worldly possessions to build a temple; He’s asking us to give of our means and our time despite the pressures of modern living to continue to build temples and then to attend regularly the temples already built. He isn’t asking us to die a martyr’s death; He’s asking us to live a disciple’s life.

Doug Ross


Saturday, April 27, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - John Young

While reading through early pioneer accounts of those who settled in the Salt Lake Valley, it has been enlightening to me to learn of the ever present Indian threat they lived with.  

For the most part, the saints treated the "Indians" with compassion, compared to the standards of the day.  They saw in them the ancestors of the Lamanite nation and as such were likely to entreat them with an extra measure of tolerance.   

For example, Preston Nibley recounts a story of two boys, aged 12 and 9, who were asked to go out and gather wood.  Such a task required a full day, for wood was only to be found  in the mountain canyons.  These boys hitched up their wagon and oxen and were successful in gathering their wood.  Their journey took them 12 miles from home, and on their way home as dusk was setting in they missed a turn.  

The boys knew about the threats out there and they were scared.  The older boy, named Karl, put on a brave face and tried to downplay his own fears and comfort his younger brother.  The noises in the night sounded odd.  On the advice of the older brother, they prayed for comfort and for safety.  They made a huge fire in hopes of attracting anyone who might have been searching for them.  They had their guns at their side.  

Then out of the darkness came two Ute braves in full warpaint.  Such was the surprise that they bound the boys and took their guns and the 2 oxen and commenced a forced march all night long up the canyon.  They hiked all that night and the next day and finally stopped after a 24 hr forced march.  The braves bound the older boy and separated them and put the guns next to their heads by the fire.

Before stopping, the boys decided that they would attempt an escape. The older boy had a razor blade in his pocket.  Neither boy had slept for 36 hours.  The older brother could see the younger brother across the fire.  They were both exceedingly tired, and their heads would droop at times, but they would always upright themselves.  About midnight, the younger brother got up, easily cut the cords binding the wrists of his brother, and knew that for them to stand a chance they had to get the rifle and pistols.  They had to attempt retrieving the firearms, for when the braves realized their captors were missing, they would easily overtake them and guns were the only thing that might level the playing field.  

They quietly escaped with the firearms and quietly roused the oxen grazing in the field.  They stumbled along in the night holding onto the oxen tails until they collapsed from exhaustion.  They crawled onto the backs of the oxen, who plundered along into morning when they woke after sliding off the back of one of the oxen.  A short time later they heard the whoop of the war party who saw the new footprints in the trail.  They took shelter behind a rock and took aim at the party as they rounded the bend in the trail.  One of the braves took a ball in the leg.  Arrows and black powder balls flew through the air in that small clearing, until the boys had expended their ammunition.  As the braves advanced toward the rock sheltering the boys, from further down the canyon, they heard the search party advancing.  Both braves disappeared in the undergrowth and the boys father, overjoyed to have found his sons before their sure demise, delivered his sons safely home.  

Years later, after peace had been established between the settlers and the Indians, the boys recognized their captors.  The brave who had been hit in the leg, who still walked with a limp, recognized the bravery of those boys and smiled admiringly as he said, "brave boys, heap brave."

Story recounted in "Pioneer Stories" Bookcraft Publishing 1976

John Young

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - Russ Christensen

Trek is a hard thing for most of us.  The heat, bugs, dirt, sweat and blisters. Away from modern conveniences and loved ones. There are plenty of things to complain about. And there are no exceptions, we all get to walk in the same heat and the same dirt. As I was thinking about our great staff and all the great couples that are helping out as Ma's and Pa's and all they are putting aside for this trip, I was overcome with gratitude. Thanks again for your efforts and sacrifice. I also started thinking about how everyday life isn't so different from trek. Everyday life can be hard too. Dealing with school, work, money,  sports, etc. With grass to mow, windows to wash, laundry to  do, meals to cook, kitchens to clean. There are plenty of things to complain about.
So how are we to wend our way with joy?

Doctrine and Covenants 58: 2-6
2 For verily I say unto you, blessed is he that keepeth my commandments, whether in life or in death; and he that is faithful in tribulation, the reward of the same is greater in the kingdom of heaven.
3 Ye cannot behold with your natural eyes, for the present time, the design of your God concerning those things which shall come hereafter, and the glory which shall follow after much tribulation.
4 For after much tribulation come the blessings. Wherefore the day cometh that ye shall be crowned with much glory; the hour is not yet, but is nigh at hand.
5 Remember this, which I tell you before, that you may lay it to heart, and receive that which is to follow.
6 Behold, verily I say unto you, for this cause I have sent you—that you might be obedient, and that your hearts might be prepared to bear testimony of the things which are to come;

We keep an eternal perspective and remember that this life is but a moment, given to prove ourselves through faithfulness and service. And we will have our reward.


President Hinckley was a happy man. He lived through hardship with joy, and spoke often about living happier lives. He counseled: “Generally speaking, the most miserable people I know are those who are obsessed with themselves; the happiest people I know are those who lose themselves in the service of others...By and large, I have come to see that if we complain about life, it is because we are thinking only of ourselves.” ― Gordon B. Hinckley

I find this very true of myself, and pray that we may think of the youth and those around us more than ourselves. We will then look to this adventure with excitement rather than impending doom. We will walk the sand pits with a smile rather than a frown. The spirit will be stronger in our families, and we will lift our youth to a higher place.

Remember: “It isn't as bad as you sometimes think it is. It all works out. Don't worry. I say that to myself every morning. It all works out in the end. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us. He will not forsake us. If we will put our trust in Him, if we will pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers.” ― Gordon B. Hinckley

Let's pray for our youth, be specific in your prayer. Pray for youth you know are going. Pray that you will know how to help them draw nearer to Christ. Pray for guidance as you search the scriptures and pioneer history, that you will be guided to those materials that will be most effective.

Thanks again for all that you are doing for our youth. Remember to "dream of your mansions above" or as I like to sing it "dream of your endless ski slopes above"

Russ Christensen

Trek Prep Devotional - John & JanaLee Millard

Thanks to all who have crafted the previous devotionals! They have been thought provoking and inspirational.

Many of us have a Pioneer heritage and some of us do not have ancestors that came across the plains. Many of us have stories from our Fore Fathers and Mothers that are inspirational and exciting and others may not. But in a real way, we all have a pioneer heritage and all of us are pioneers in our own ways. We all benefit from courageous and faithful examples whether in our blood related family or not.

The challenges and trials we have endured and learned from have given us a legacy to pass along. On trek we will have the opportunity to use the talents we have been blessed with and the spiritual strength we have gained through trials, obedience and faith. We will have the opportunity to expand our sphere of influence in our trek families.

These youth that will be assigned to us are choice children of our Father in Heaven. We will have an opportunity to add to their strength and help them build their relationship with our Savior by loving them and sharing this experience with them. To represent our Savior in a small way on this trek.

I agree with all of previous sentiments that this is a sacred opportunity! Last night we heard a lot about preparation. If we are prepared physically, we will be able to follow the wise counsel from last night and be in a position to think about the others in our Family rather than ourselves. And if we do all we can to be prepared spiritually, and place our confidence and faith in the Savior and let love cast out our fear (1 John 4:18), we can and I think we will see miracles occur on Trek.

We have been chosen for a reason and let's hope and pray and prepare so we can all make the most of this trek so that our "children" will remember this experience fondly for the rest of their lives. Maybe we will too.

John and JanaLee Millard

Monday, April 22, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - Jim Perez


I just want to reiterate what was mentioned last night.  The Youth's Trek experience rests entirely on the shoulders of their Ma & Pa.  When I was a "Pa" eight years ago, I was probably more nervous about that calling than any other.  I recognized that I, along with my wife, had to invite and keep the Spirit with our new family.  There were a lot of prayers sent upwards over this solemn responsibility. I also did a lot of "homework".  This series of devotional thoughts is a great idea.  I also found the following book very helpful to give me some stories to share with the youth



{ I have a copy if anyone wants to borrow it}

also [haven't crawled all through this site though]
http://pioneerexperience.com/


One of the members of the Willie Handcart company said in his journal, "No person can describe it, nor could it be comprehended or understood by any human being in this life, but those who were called to pass through it".  So, for you to have a true understanding of what it must have been like, it helps to read about the handcart pioneers.  We aren't trying to recreate the pioneer experience, but I believe that it helps to know some true stories, that you can share.  I think it is important for them to realize what a sacrifice it was for the true handcart pioneers.

One summer I took my family on a summer vacation, and as part of the trip, we followed the Mormon trail from Chimney Rock, Nebraska into SLC in one looong day.  We stopped at monuments along the way, and forts, until the LDS folks branched off.  We learned trivia about the main wagon trains traveling on one side of the river, but Brigham had the LDS pioneers cross and travel on the other side of the river.  We saw a sample of provisions for the Willie/Martin handcart pioneers, and a list of survivors.  I still remember one family of ~ 8 commemorated on a plaque, the only survivors was a 16 yr old and a couple children

As a Ma/Pa you need to be ready for those youth from fringe families. Be ready for that, encourage and embrace it.  You may be the only Ma/Pa that some of these kids have, and may be the only one that has shown any interest in them for years.  These kids won't "fit in", they won't know the others very well, be on the lookout and encourage others in your family to wrap their arms around them in support and love.  Be ready for a relationship that may last through the years.  We received wedding announcements and communication from our "kids" for years after our trek.

Approach this calling with solemn responsibility, it isn't just a hike and a cart pull.  All of that is just a foundation for a spiritual event that rests entirely on your shoulders... Be Prepared

Trek Prep Devotional - Tracy Dewey


This past week I was invited to go snowshoeing up near the Mt. Baker ski resort with Caleb, a young man who is athletically inclined.  Caleb  has been living with us so he could finish up his senior year at Lynden High School. Having never been snowshoeing, I quickly learned what essential equipment I needed and picked up at a second hand store and Craigslist.

We woke up early Saturday morning and packed all are gear along with snacks and something to drink.  As we left our home it was overcast and raining as we drove up towards the mountain the rain turned to snow and we had plenty of it at the top.  The first part of our trek we stayed on the grated snow path and I found it fairly easy to maneuver in the snowshoes but was kind of uneventful.

Then we spent the last half of our time going into the back country where we had to be careful of avalanches, getting to close to the base of the tree and falling into the abyss and at times it was hard to see with the wind blowing the snow. We ended up having some spectacular views as we trudged along the way.  At one point we went down a steep hillside, I was hesitant to go down knowing it would be difficult to clime back up.  With some encouragement, I made the decent and then came the difficult climb back up. I found as I put my feet in the tracks which Caleb made then it was much easier and I safely made it back to the top.

As we continued our journey through the day the snow became slushy and it was becoming more and more difficult to walk.  At one point I lost my footing and fell over into the snow and it took me sometime to get up and moving again.  I decided as long as tried to step into Caleb's foot prints, I was able to save a lot of energy.  Caleb happens to be a few inches taller than me, so it took some effort for me to match each of his steps. By the end of the day we had spent four hours snowshoeing, we had some spectacular views but I was exhausted.

I was glad we had gone into the back country even though it was more difficult than the graded path.  As I reflect on this experience, I think of the graded path as what it may have been like in the pre mortal existence, we had progressed as far as we could to that point. The back country is similar to what we face here on earth with all the temptatons and dangers we encounter.  I think of how Jesus Christ has gone before us to make a path for us to safely return from the back country to our Heavenly Father's presence. I also know, that He will require us to stretch at times beyond our comfort zone in order for us to become a better person.  Knowing that there will be times in our lives where we will fall down as long as we make an effort to get back on our feet the Savior's atonement will help get us back on the pathway that will lead to a spectacular view of eternity.

Brother Dewey

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - Steve & Teri Booth

This week had it’s high and low points.  The high point was getting to surprise my step-dad along with my step-sister and half-sister for his eightieth birthday in Tennessee. The low point was hearing that Steve’s mom fell and bumped her head, and having her die within twenty-four hours.

As we mobilized the family to see who could attend the funeral in Utah, who could stay home and play supporting roles, I was in awe of my children and in-laws and their willingness to work together, sacrifice and support each other and us in our time of shock and grief.  Each person gave their utmost. Alex and Kristine sacrificed time and money, buying an airplane ticket and having Alex skip two days of classes right before his students have to take the AP physics test.  Kristine, pregnant stayed home with two rambunctious toddlers.  Austin two weeks from graduation sacrificed papers, and tests.  Rhea thirty weeks pregnant with twins, crazily got in the car and took three days off work.  Maren took off three more days of work, when the money is oh so needed for graduate school and moving to Kansas at the end of summer. Jacob shortened his family time in order for Maren to leave and took care of the chickens, house, garbage, yada.  Both couples helped with food and gas expenses. Last but not least Sophie stayed home for the weekend, instead of going with Maren and Jacob to Olympia, when she was really feeling bad about being left and held down the fort for the youth garage sale and took care of the dog and chickens and got the car packed so she and Maren could meet me in Edmonds and drive to Pullman as I came home Sunday afternoon.
 Each person played a vital roll.  Steve was able to get to his mother before she died.  I and the kids drove 3000 miles in three days and still like each other.  In thinking about the events of the last six days, I have come to realize that this kind of cooperation does not really happen over night.  It is the results of all of us making day to day decisions to be part of a family, to be part of the solution instead of part of the problem.  We must train to be in a family.  It is not a skill that comes over “I do” at the altar.  It comes from training as a child, denying oneself as a young adult, and finally sacrificing for each other as adults.

I think one of the main benefits of trek, is to teach our trek kids that they can be part of something big, by small acts of cooperation.  Being in a family requires sacrifice, but the rewards last an eternity.

Teri Booth, Bellingham 1st


"I'm a fifth generation member of the church, which means that many of my ancestors traveled across the plains.  Some were part of the Willie and Martin handcart company rescues.  It's not difficult to find stories about their sacrifices as they made their way to Utah and that gathering of the saints.  I feel deeply their legacy of sacrifice and obedience and hope that my life will also reflect an attitude of sacrifice and obedience.  

My wife, Teri, on the other hand, is the first member in her family.  She has no LDS pioneer stories from her ancestors.  She does, however have a story of sacrifice for family.  Her great grandfather was a master brewer from Prussia (currently Poland).  He left home and moved west to a town south of Berlin in the Sachsen-Anhalt region in the 1890's.  He married while living there, and after his two children were born, he received word from his wife's sister that the sister's husband had stepped on a rusty nail, had contracted lockjaw and had died in America.  The sister sent money for passage and asked the family to come to America to help.  Teri's great grandfather left a successful business in Germany to come help his sister-in-law's family at the insistence of his wife.  Although, my wife's great grandmother was not a member, and never did become a member, she listened to the promptings of the spirit to go to America just after the turn of the last century, and by so doing, saved herself and her family from the devastation and horror of two world wars and the prospect of living behind the iron curtain in a divided Germany.  Our youngest daughter, Sophie, who will be participating in trek this year is named after Teri's great aunt Winna Sophia Emilie Wolfert, who helped her ancestors come to America."

Steve Booth, Bellingham 1st

Trek Prep Devotional - Jason & Bobbilyn Hogge

I'd like to share a quick clip.  If you have a few minutes to spare, please watch the first 2 minutes and 20 seconds of this video. 



I love President Hinckley's testimony and this beautiful song has always deeply touched my heart.  Whether it be incredible stories of our ancestor's journeys or emails from our beloved missionaries serving and teaching of the Gospel in distant lands it reminds me of those who give so much, who sacrifice so much in the humble service and love for our Savior Jesus Christ, our Heavenly Father and the true gospel.  What tremendous faith literally in every footstep is demonstrated and what an incredible example these stories are to me and my family.
 
Jason and Bobbilyn Hogge

Faith in Every Footstep

1. A marvelous work has begun to come forth among all the children of men.O ye that embark in the service of God, give heart, mind, and strength unto him;For prophets have spoken and angels have come to lift the world from sin,That Christ may reign over all the earth and bless his gathered kin.


Chorus

2. Those marvelous Saints who embraced this great work and shared it in lands far and near;
Who gave all their heart, mind, and strength to the Lord with wisdom and vision so clear;
Now stand as examples of virtue and faith, of souls prepared to hear,
Of knowledge sure, born of humble heart, and love that banished fear.

Chorus

3. If we now desire to assist in this work and thrust in our sickle with might;
If we will embark in the service of God and harvest in fields that are white;
Our souls may receive the salvation of God—the fulness of his light,
That we may stand, free of sin and blame, God’s glory in our sight.

Chorus
Chorus

With faith in every footstep, we follow Christ, the Lord;
And filled with hope through his pure love, we sing with one accord.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - Todd & Jennifer McCleve

I have so enjoyed the devotionals offered by all of you.  I have been reflecting for some time on what I might add to make the experience of being a Ma and Pa more meaningful and positive.  Years ago I was involved in the Young Men’s program and it was recommended that YM’s presidents have the young men in the ward in their homes. Why?  If the YM’s president and his wife were living their lives as they should, these young men would be exposed to a father who loves and respects his wife and a home where the Spirit resides.  I know the influence of these YM’s leaders was powerful and did leave a lasting impression.
When we did our first Trek, this same emphasis was placed upon us as trek parents.  We were told that we would have children in our trek families who had not seen a family functioning in the Gospel.  I want to testify that this will be a reality with many of your trek children.  In every trek family we’ve been involved in there have been youth in our families who have come from environments where living the Gospel is not a part of the family environment. It is so important to show the love and respect for our spouses that a Celestial marriage demands. Your trek children will bask in the love that you as a couple radiate.  Too many of our youth are in homes that are either broken or headed that way. You have been chosen for this role for a reason and my hope is that your trek children will see the love of the Gospel through you.



My favorite scripture: (Alma 7:23-24)

“And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive.
And see that ye have faith, hope, and charity, and then ye will always abound in good works.”
 

Todd and Jennifer McCleve

Monday, April 15, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - Jason Kaopua

Like many of our youth involved in Trek, I was raised in the Church.  Life was pretty easy for me in the sense that school wasn't that difficult, I did fairly well at sports and music, and making friends came easily.  We always had food on the table and were financially stable.

When I went on my mission to Haiti, my eyes were opened to just how hard life can be for others.  I noticed that the Haitian people were still happy--just as happy as me, in fact.  How was this so?  They had nothing--not just in worldly wealth, but in education, and hope as well.  Haiti is the poorest country in the western hemisphere with no natural resources and a poor national economic outlook.  Yet people there did live happy lives.  I realized that one source of peace and happiness comes from within. 

When considering the pioneers and the many trials they experienced--the lack of food and provisions, bitter winters, lack of medicine, and other dangers they encountered along the way, one cannot help but admire their faith.  To read that they were happy although they had to flee for their lives amazes me.  How could they live happy lives amidst their tribulations? For the pioneers, it was in seeking after God--the joy of inheriting eternal life.

This hope and knowledge we share.  This affects our outlook on life both here and in the eternities.  We, of all people should be happy.  I hope that trek helps our young people see through the experiences of the pioneers, that happiness comes from within, hope comes through Christ, and lasting joy comes through becoming like our Heavenly Father.

Mosiah 2:41--And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.


Saturday, April 13, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - Don & Deri Bowker


Ok here we go:  My wife and I had the opportunity to go on Trek about 16 or so years ago. What a great blessing it was in our lives. We had the opportunity of being with several youth and helping them to understand the gospel a little better. It worked both ways though and we taught each other as it happened. There faith grew, our faith grew, we worked together in almost every aspect of Trek. Young men and young women working together for a cause. From setting up camp to being a friend and for some that didn't have brothers or sisters at home the opportunity of feeling the love of brothers and sisters and a big family setting. At night sitting around our campfire, telling stories of life as pioneers but also everyday struggles of life now. Also the best part was the feeling of love each individual had for there savior and what he had done for them as they bore testimonies at the campfires. As you attend Trek keep your minds and hearts opened as you work with these wonderful spirits that our Father In Heaven has entrusted to each of us. I hope this makes sense to you. Good luck to all and have a great time.

 Your Brother and Sister Don and Deni Bowker

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - Emily Staheli

   My family and I had the opportunity to visit Salt Lake City last weekend.  While at Temple Square, we watched the film “The Restoration” in the Joseph Smith Memorial building.  From the film, I was again reminded of the selfless sacrifices early saints made because of their faith in the gospel.   It’s hard to imagine what it would have been like to leave so much behind to move to a distant land; sometimes by choice and other times by force, due to persecution.  In an excerpt from one of my ancestor’s journal, Charles Negus Carroll,  who had traveled by boat and crossed the plains to the Salt Lake Valley.  On his journey he lost his wife and three of his four children, he said, “It had been an uphill climb every step of the way.  He remembered it all with a sad heart, but not with a sinking spirit; for when a man leaves father, mother, country, and all for a principle, he is pretty sure to be immovably convinced that the principle is right.”



Along with the sacrifices that early saints made, I especially marvel at the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith.  It is impressive to think of what he accomplished during his life and I am grateful for the sacrifices he made so that the gospel of Jesus Christ could be restored.  Sitting the next day in the Conference Center for General Conference, the fruits of Josephs Smith’s life were evident.  In D&C 135:3 it reads, “Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it.  In the short space of twenty years, he has brought forth the Book of Mormon, which he translated by the gift and power of God, and has been the means of publishing it on two continents; has sent the fullness of the everlasting gospel, which it contained, to the four quarters of the earth; has brought forth the revelations and commandments which compose this book of Doctrine and Covenants, and many other wise documents and instructions for the benefit of the children of men; gathered many thousands of the Latter-day Saints, founded a great city, and left a fame and name that cannot be slain…” 
I am grateful for the early pioneers and for the prophet Joseph Smith. 

I know that it is through sacrifice and obedience to the principles of the gospel that our testimony in Jesus Christ grows.  What a wonderful legacy to be a part of.


Emily Staheli

Trek Prep Devotional - Russ Dzialo

My family history does not include any Mormon pioneers with the exception of myself. I am a first generation member of the church. I have been a member only a short time (8 1/2 years) and have done a lot of family history research. I had the privilege of going the Temple last night with the youth of my ward. Baptisms were done on behave of a few of my ancestors including a great-grandfather and some great-great grandparents. Although I never met these people I could feel their presence in the Temple.

Some of my ancestors were in Quincy, Illinois at the time Nauvoo was booming. These were German immigrants who like most people came to the United States in search of a better life.

Although I have never been on a Pioneer Trek, I have been backpacking for 11 days. I know of the determination and teamwork that it takes to make it through to the end. I know that testimonies will be strengthened and friendships will be formed as the youth and leaders complete this experience. We should keep our ancestors in our minds and hearts as we prepare. We should also look at ourselves as pioneers regardless of ancestry because what we do in this life will have an impact on our posterity.

Yours In Service,
Russ Dzialo


Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - Slade Brockett

Hannah Last Cornaby is my wife's great-great-great-grandmother.  She was a woman strong in faith and in letters.  She left her posterity many poems, songs, and other writings, including an autobiography.  We are fortunate to have access to her writings.  I wish to share a few excerpts from the record of her life. 

ON FACING OPPOSITION AFTER BAPTISM IN ENGLAND

"This was the beginning of June, two years from the June before mentioned; then, we had not even heard of this Latter-day work, now, we were identified with it, and our names cast out as evil for its sake; but, oh! how happy we felt, as we journeyed on; how unspeakably dear we were to each other!  The trials through which we had already passed, purified our faith and increased our love.

"Before adopting our new faith, we weighed the matter well, and counted the cost.  We were not coaxed nor coerced, but did it prayerfully, thoughtfully and intelligently; and could say in the words of the Apostle Paul, "Neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy."

ON LEARNING OF CELESTIAL MARRIAGE

"My husband opened the parcel of Millennial Stars that have been received the previous day form Liverpool, and to our astonishment found the revelation on Celestial Marriage.  We had a testimony that it was from God, and rejoiced that He had indeed restored the Gospel as in former dispensations.  No principle or doctrine of our faith had been received by us with so much joy, as this heaven-born revelation."

ON TRAVELING FROM ENGLAND AND CROSSING THE PLAINS

"When at length, from the top of the Little Mountain, we caught a first glimpse of the Valley, our delight and gratitude found vent in tears of unfeigned joy, and when, on the morning of the 12th of October, 1853, we emerged from the mouth of Emigration Canyon and beheld the City of the Saints, we felt more than repaid for the nine months of travel, and all the hardships we had endured.  We seemed to inhale the restful spirit of the beautiful city, spread out in peaceful loveliness before us . . . With these feeling we entered Salt Lake City, and encamped on Union Square; thankful that our lives had been preserved, and that now we could rest after our long journey; for I had walked the entire distance from Council Bluffs - more than one thousand miles!" 



ON RECEIVING THE ENDOWMENT

"On the twenty-first of March, we passed through the Endowment House.  Those who have enjoyed the privilege, can appreciate the blessing it was to us at this time.  Having left all for the gospel's sake, we were repaid a hundred fold."

I am grateful for this wonderful Sister, who endured many hardships in life, but in doing so set an example for her family to follow.  Her life was one of joy, even in trials, having understood the blessings of the Gospel and the temple ordinances.

(Those who pay attention to the authors listed in the hymn book may recognize Hannah Last Cornaby as the author of "Who's on the Lord's Side").

Monday, April 8, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - Pat & Nel McCourt


I am always awed and respect the strength of the Sisters in Zion.  Today as well as the days when the church was first organized.  Always ready and willing with a song in their hearts.  "As Sisters in Zion"  And my heart feel full when I read the next pioneer incidents. 

On February 5th, 1846 the "Camp of Israel" broke camp on Sugar Creek.  They commenced their weary march for the Missouri River.  The 'Company was comprised of nearly 400 wagons.  That day they traveled five miles in a north-west direction and again set up camp on Sugar Creek for the night.'  A well known writer observed: "The survivors of that journey to the Missouri will tell you that all suffered immensely from the cold weather on Sugar Creek.  That morning most of the sisters in the company wept their farewells over their beloved city Nauvoo, and mourned for their sanctuary, the Temple, in which they had hoped to worship till the end of life.  Of which they left, never to see again."

And what would the Mormon women tell of that first night of encampment?  Around those family circles it was almost tragic romance.  Fancy this notion; we can find abundant subject material for many graphic stories of devotion, and loyalty, personal and family sufferings, of unmatched heroism, and valor, of love unfeigned to those 'Sisters' and families in need.  The incident of nine babies born the first night was not unusual.  That cold night, nature administered a full measure of suffering to nine valiant sisters in the mixed cup of motherhood's supreme's joy and pain of birth."

As a fitting continuation of the above circumstances, Eliza R. Snow related the following information:  "I was informed that on the first night of our encampment, nine children were born into the world.  From that time as we journeyed onward.  Mothers gave birth to offspring under almost every variety of circumstance imaginable, except for those who were accustomed to difficult circumstances; some births were in tents, others in wagons, many in rain storms and in snow storms.  I heard of one birth which occurred under a rude shelter of a hut.  The sides of which were framed with blankets fastened to poles stuck in the ground, and a bark roof over head, through which the rain was dripping.  Many kind sisters stood holding dishes to catch the water as it fell, thus protecting the new comer and its mother from a cold shower bath as the little innocent first entered on the stage of human life."  - Bro. McCourt
 

Trek, for us, is a VERY spiritual experience.  We feel so privileged to be able to have gone as Ma and Pa in the past and gained a relationship with our Trek sons and daughters, as they grew closer to their Heavenly Father and their testimonies grew while on Trek.  We have had some great spiritual moving experiences and recorded them for all of our Trek kids as we go on Trek.  May we all take a special effort to prepare ourselves for this upcoming Trek and pray that you will be blessed with wisdom to say those things that Heavenly Father would have you say as you interact with our youth.  May the Spirit guide you at all times.  May you be blessed with the physical strength and mental strength needed for the sacred event in your lives and in the lives of our youth.  - Sist. McCourt

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - Roland King

Hi all,

Have you heard the saying “you’ve got to take a leap of faith”? 

Yesterday I took my family to Canada to a really fun water park called WaterMania.  At this swimming pool they had one of those Olympic platforms that are used for high dive events.  I took my 4 oldest kids that range from almost 14 to 7 years old, up the long steps to the top. As I walked out to the edge of this platform and looked down I got that scary nervous feeling I get in anticipation of free falling.  I had to really force myself to make that step or leap to get down off this platform.  One of my daughters felt the same thing I was feeling and she made several (like maybe 10 or 15) trips to the edge of that platform before finally taking action and putting that foot out over the edge to begin her decent to the pool water below.


I like how Alma in the book of Mormon described faith, he said, “Faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true.” He continues, “Awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith….” Alma 32:21,27
Faith is a principle of action and power.  For us to receive salvation we need to have faith in Christ.  One of the ways we show are faith in Christ is to live his teachings. We create action in how we live because of our faith in Him.  For some it might be easier and for others it might be harder but each of us has to take that leap of faith at some point to follow the Savior and to be perfected in him. 

Thank you,
Roland King

Trek Prep Devotional - Gwynn Meaker

Four years ago, President Charles Usery came to me and ask Dan and I to be parents on Trek. He informed me that he had already gotten the "OK" from Dan. My first thought,,,, " I must learn how to silence my husband! " To say I had no desire to go on trek, is by far the biggest understatement of the century. I disclosed every logical reason under the sun, just why we (and when I said we I meant why I) was not the proper options for trek. So, President Usery did what President Usery does best, looked me squarely in the eye, smiled and pointed to the sky and said, "I'm not the one asking?" AGHHHHHHHH He found my week spot. So I told him I'd think about it.





Well, that was four years ago, and to answer your question, "Yes, I went to trek". I don't look at mountains the same way any more. The short four days spent as a little pioneer family pushing hand carts up and down foothills (Not Mountains) brings me such a feeling of amazement and wonder for the real pioneers. However, because of trek, I know that  they, the pioneers, pressed forward with Joy. I have never experienced four days in a row, before, or since, where I felt the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, leading me, guiding me, and helping me with every step, and every conversation that I had with my lil' family. Trek is by far an experience that has changed my life. I am so excited for the experiences that our wonderful youth are about to embark on, the testimony building moments that will stay with them the rest of their lives. I witnessed  trek change the lives of the youth that Dan and I were privileged to be a "Pa and Ma" to. I have witnessed long term how  trek changed the life of my brother, who before his trek, was teeter-tottering with a testimony, only to come back and serve a full time mission, and come back an was sealed to his eternal companion in the temple. 

Dallin H. Oaks has said, " There are hidden heroines and heroes among the Latter-day Saints - those of the last wagon whose fidelity to duty and devotion to righteousness go unnoticed by anyone except the ONE whose notice really matters. "

As a Ma and Pa, you will be a hero to these youth. Let Light and Joy be your constant companion.

Trek changes lives! Prepare yourselves, and know that that this experience will be a blessing not only to those who you will be privileged to serve, but to you as well! 

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Trek Prep Devotional - David Thuet


I've had three things on my mind that led me to a comforting scripture:

1) Adversity is real. This has been brought home to me by some family members and friends recently experiencing trials large enough to shake their faith.

2) Trek is an opportunity to catch a small glimpse in to one of the many trials the pioneers endured. Literally trekking across this country with nothing but a handcart and a burning faith that they were doing the Lord's will.

3) Faithfully following the living prophet will protect us against the the powers of darkness. This applies both to the pioneers and the many trials they endured, as well as to us today.

Doctrine & Covenants:

Wherefore, meaning the church, thou shalt give heed unto all his [the prophet's] words and commandments which he shall give unto you as he receiveth them, walking in all holiness before me;
 For his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith.
 For by doing these things the gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name’s glory.
 For thus saith the Lord God: Him have I inspired to move the cause of Zion in mighty power for good, and his diligence I know, and his prayers I have heard.

As we look to our prophet and other leaders this weekend during General Conference, may we keep an ear tuned to how following their counsel, which is ultimately the Lord's counsel, will give us the strength to endure the storms that are being, and will be, pored out in these the last days. The Pioneers offer us a powerful example of literally following the prophet west, even at great sacrifice.