Priesthood Pedastool?

I have heard recent complaints about how men in the LDS or Mormon faith have been placed at such a high standing. They are supposedly revered and more powerful.

I really have to disagree with this notion. I believe that anyone who took the time to examine the responsibilities of the Priesthood holders from a 12 year old deacon through a 70 year old high council men, they would see that the Priesthood is about service, not power. I wouldn't want to responsibilities that come with the Priesthood. I am not envious of the young man who passes the sacrament, nor of the bishop who sits in the front of the ward. All of those "callings" would make my anxiety sky rocket and I probably would attend church much less than I already do.

I believe that a righteous man, in any denomination is reverenced and respected. This is no different for the LDS community. I do think there are men who misuse the role of "head of the house" but I think the LDS normatives follow the general population normatives.

Any other ideas on the topic?

Grinch-ish

The First Presidency Christmas Devotional, from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints(www.lds.org) was tonight.

We rushed through dinner, family time, and traffic to drop half the family off at the door; park; run down 6 flights of stairs, walk 3 blocks, wait in line, and barely be seated before the prophet came in. My ears were cold, my feet hurt from shoes, my lungs inhaled the polution and burned.

I definately was not pleasant. I definately was not reverent in mind. I would say I was definately a little Grinchish: cursing Christmas, traditions, and all that goes with it.

I found it quite ironic that the very first speaker, President Uchtdorf spoke on how caught up we all get with the fuss and bustle of the Holiday. I felt the spirit as he invited us to relax a little and enjoy the family around us and the blessings we have .

I have been making my list, checking it over and over to ensure no one is missed. I am telling family that I am not getting them things they ask because of cost and finances. I have felt guilt at trying to cut back so I am spending more time trying to win things, cut coupons for other things, and make things.

Things. Things. Things.

None of these things will be remembered.

While I am not going to stop my effort (in the name of tradition), I am going to be more thoughtful about what I can purchase and invest my time and money in gifts that will be more memorable and meaningful.

I will report on my goal, as we get closer to Christmas. Please feel free to comment with links to your ideas on the Christmas Devotional or how your family is making the season memorable.

Religious Background

A small agenda item, my family is Mormon or members of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I’m not ashamed of it, but I want you to know from the start because sometimes I use words that are unique. This is the area where I have debated blogging because my faith is very personal and directs the things I choose to do.

As a professional, I don’t typically reveal this fact to others but this isn’t a professional blog. I am not being paid to blog or make a profit in any way.

I am not a typical Mormon. I attended church with Nazarene grandparents through my whole childhood and teenage years. I asked Christ into my life in several of those services and continue to ask him into my life during the LDS services. I loved vacation bible school and still have many of the Bible quotes memorized.

I feel this background is important because my fundamental belief is centered on our Savior and the lessons he taught.  Most Mormons consider themselves Christian and our services are centered in Christ, but you have to listen closely to hear it. This is debated and confused because our churches do not have crosses and many don’t even have pictures of the crucifixion. I feel that our focus is on the resurrection of Christ and the promises that come with it. 

Regardless of labels, I agree with people who are trying to do the best they can with what they have been given. Mother Theresa is a role model to me and even as a teenager when she passed I mourned for her and the people of India she served.

There are good people to be found throughout the world and who am I to judge another?