Source Report--by Kimaree Walker

Title:
Maxell, Neal A. “Swallowed Up in the Will of the Father” October 1995
Christofferson Todd, D. “Come to Zion” October 2008

Summary: 
In Neal A. Maxwell’s talk, he discusses the various ways members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints disobey God’s will. He explains how dangerous sins of omission may be. Generally faithful members can avoid major sin, but failing to think beyond themselves is potentially harmful to their souls. What a person may desire, changes their relationship with God either for the better or it may cause more harm. Members must align their desires to what God would have us do. Members do not need to worry that aligning our will to Gods makes them loose individuality. Believing this could keep them from the wonderful principle of consecration. Maxwell reassures those who have doubts when saying they would not be losing their identity but rather finding their true identity.

He goes on to testify that consecration isn’t mindlessly accepting, but an “expansion outward.” Little by little members can overcome sins of omission, align and follow God’s will. When we are one with God’s will, inspiration and revelation is received. By doing so, we are able to trust in God and be directed in our lives. He promises us that we become filled with happiness when we have faithful desires.

In Todd D Christofferson’s talk, he defines Zion as a people and a place. He quotes Doctrine and Covenants 133:9 “…go ye forth unto the land of Zion… and that Zion may go forth unto the regions round about.” He reminds us of a particular moment in church history where early members attempted to establish Zion in Missouri. They were unable to because they weren’t obedient in all things. He points out that we can learn from past experiences, to improve ourselves.
Christofferson gives us three characteristics we must have to establish our own Zion within our homes, branches, wards and stakes. First, become unified in one heart and one mind. He talks of the importance of forgiving everyone, and how placing the lord at the center of our lives is crucial to unity. Second, become a holy people. We aren’t striving to become less wicked than others, but rather becoming completely holy. Third, care for the poor and needy. Through these principles we are able to build a Zion in our own lives.

Insight: 
Christofferson’s challenge to look at church history and try to learn from the member’s mistakes is important so we can evaluate our own personal lives. Becoming completely one with God may seem frightening for various reasons, but this is a slow process done step by step. Possibly in our Doctrine and Covenants class, we can take a few steps forward in that process as we read of the history of this wonderful church and evaluate our own lives. 

Quotes: 
Elder Maxwell said in his talk: “Actually, everything depends—initially and finally—on our desires. These shape our thought patterns. Our desires thus precede our deeds and lie at the very cores of our souls, tilting us toward or away from God. God can ‘educate our desires.’ Others seek to manipulate our desires. But it is we who form the desires, the ‘thoughts and intents of [our] hearts’.”
Elder Christofferson said, “Zion is Zion because of the character, attributes, and faithfulness of her citizens. Remember, ‘the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them’ (Moses 7:18). If we would establish Zion in our homes, branches, wards, and stakes, we must rise to this standard... We cannot wait until Zion comes for these things to happen—Zion will come only as they happen.”

Response: 
Elder Christofferson talked about creating Zion in our homes and lives through three key characteristics. If we are lacking any of those three important characteristics, we will not be able to create a Zion in our homes, and would be sinning by omission. Maxwell’s talk was a good reminder to look at my life and evaluate if I am lacking in any principle, because sin of omission could be as harmful as sin of commission. Our main purpose in this life is to return with God. Therefore it is crucial to create a place of Zion while on this Earth, and be actively striving to be one with God’s will. Consecration is a delicate principle. It can be hard for members to fully comprehend, but once we have righteous desires, God will bless and direct us in our lives.