Attended the Ogden Temple Dedication via closed circuit TV this morning. Enjoyed Elder Clayton's talk about how the Temple is able to heal us much like the Savior does, Elder Bednar's talk about why he loves the Temple and the contrast between it and the teaching of the World, and President's Monson's talk about loving, appreciating, attending the Temple using stories of Saints who made great sacrifices to enjoy the blessings of the Temple. But the best part for me was the Hosanna Anthem. It reminded me of the Bountiful Temple Dedication some 20 years ago and the opportunity I had to sing in the choir. It was while we sang the Hosanna Anthem which incorporates The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning that I had my Kirtland-like moment of feeling the sanctifying and exhilarating rush of the Spirit that I had hoped to experience as part of a Temple dedication. But even more memorable than that was the time we spent riding back on the bus to our cars and spontaneously signing the hymns of the restoration. I kind of took the lead in doing that and it was a wonderfully rich and moving experience--the darkness of the night, the quiet of the moment, and the one voice added to by another and another until all were unified in heart and voice. Well, singing the Hosanna Anthem again this morning brought those memories back...
Also got a chance to spend some time with my grandson, Hayden. I finally have someone around here who likes the hot tub as much as I do:) In addition to that we took a little drive with Allie, Lucas, and Chase to first drive around the Bountiful Temple and then the Ogden Temple. Hayden really wanted to walk around both but the rain got in the way. He did talk Uncle Chase into racing him in the storm. Was fun. Also had a chance to visit my dad who attended all three session today. When I think about the power of the Temple, I think of him. His love for the Temple and the joy it has been for him to serve as an ordinance worker in the Ogden Temple has been a great blessing to all of us. But it was nice. Hayden couldn't attend the dedication so it was fun to do the next best thing.
Started reading a very interesting book called "10 Great Souls to Meet in Heaven" by Brad Wilcox. His proposition is that God has prepared and inspired great men and women throughout the ages and all over the world to bless his children and that we as Latter-day Saints have much to learn about and rejoice in when it comes to their lives and contributions. So far, I've been reading about St. Patricks who returned to pagan Ireland to introduce them to Christianity after having escaped there as a slave.
And, of course, today's was the start of my blog:)
God Bless. Always.
Chet
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