True to the Faith

After viewing a movie tonight, we were discussing good vs. evil. How can we get through this life and the many challenges we face? This song came into my mind:

"True to the faith that our parents have cherished, true to the truth for which martyrs have perished,
To God's command, soul, heart, and hand, faithful and true we will ever stand." (That's the chorus of the song)

In 1 Timothy 4:12 it says: "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity." (This scripture was listed as a reference to the song).

There is another reference in Alma 53:18-21:
18 "Now behold, there were two thousand of those young men, who entered into this covenant and took their weapons of war to defend their country.
19 And now behold, as they never had hitherto been a disadvantage to the Nephites, they became now at this period of time also a great support; for they took their weapons of war, and they would that Helaman should be their leader.
20 And they were all young men, and they were exceedingly valiant for courage, and also for strength and activity; but behold, this was not all - they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted.
21 Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before Him."

I love this story of the stripling warriors - they were taught if they did not doubt, God would deliver them - and He did.

The verses of the song are:
"Shall the youth of Zion falter in defending truth and right? While the enemy assaileth, Shall we shrink or shun the fight? No!
While we know the powers of darkness seek to thwart the work of God, Shall the children of the promise cease to grasp the iron rod? No!
We will work out our salvation; We will cleave unto the truth; We will watch and pray and labor With the fervent zeal of youth. Yes!
We will strive to be found worthy of the kingdom of our Lord, With the faithful ones redeemed who have loved and kept his word. Yes!

I love the hymns and children's songs. I've enjoyed being part of the choir and am grateful for the power and messages of music.
I remember when we lived in the old neighborhood, some kids were walking past our home singing, "I Am a Child of God." It touched my heart and made me happy that they knew who they were at such a young age. They were children of God, as each of us are.

Choir

I have to tell you what a spiritual experience it is to lead the choir in church. I need to give thanks first to Heavenly Father who helps me. I ask Him to send angels to help our earthly angels and He does. I'm thankful for our choir and pianist for all the time and talent that they so willingly share.
We had a sweet little 6 year old boy that played Silent Night on his tiny violin. It was amazing! I started crying and then I heard Sheila crying. It really touched her soul. It was a beautiful experience.
Merry Christmas to you all!

Festival of Trees 2

I got to spend some time at the Festival today. I sold tickets to get in. The time just flew by because it was so busy. I was anxious to see if Lucy's tree sold, and it did. "Nana and Papa" bought it. I just stood there and wept for gratitude and for our sweet Lucy. The Festival is quite a remarkable undertaking. So many volunteers, so many performers, so many giving people. I was told that there was a tree there that Garth Brooks said he'd match the donations. After all was done the tree brought in $30,000.00. Amazing! People are so good!

Festival of Trees

Our tree for Lucy