My one month mark was on the 17th of August, which also happens to be Indonesia's Independence Day. The people here take their national pride seriously. Except for the lack of Barbecue and fireworks, I felt like it was the 4th of July. Flags lined the streets, the roads were painted, parades were everywhere, and everyone was having a good time. We had an activity at the church the same day to which an investigator of mine came. I was so excited! We played games, sang, had a devotional, then ate. While we were eating the Branch President put on a show for us. He sang and played the guitar. There are quite a few musically talented people in my ward, and they all like to play Rock and Roll. I loved it.
This week in my studies I have been focusing on the importance of the Book of Mormon, and the restored truths contained within it. I really think that as a whole, a lot of us have forgotten the importance of the Book of Mormon. We ought not to take it lightly, for it contains the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ (D&C 20:9), and the words of Christ tell us all things we should do (2 Nephi 32:3). The Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion, and with it comes our faith. It is a book that we not only learn from, but also act from. As the prophet Joseph Smith put it: "man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book."
I have a testimony of the Book of Mormon, and I know of its truthfulness. I hope that we can all take the time to evaluate how we treat it. If we read it occasionally, and without diligence, what are our actions showing God? Do I treat it as the word of God himself, brought forth through the prophets? From my actions does God know that I treasure up his words (D&C 84:85)?
Pictures:
(1) The party we had at the church
(2) The food we ate
(3) My Branch President being awesome
