Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Baptism By Fire

Baptism by Fire

As a young child I really didn’t know
What made me cry and feel overwhelmed.
I just knew, what I felt was real,
And tender, and sacred.
It “made my heart within me burn”.
--I started to Learn!

As a youth on a testimony quest,
I obediently asked, “Is the Book of Mormon true?”
I knelt and waited for that now familiar burning.
What I did not expect was the all-consuming
Fire from head to toe.
--Now I Know!

My dear companion, The Holy Ghost, has taught, directed,
Led, comforted, confirmed, given hope, and kept me from harm.
As a messenger of Deity, He has witnessed truth and
Filled my soul with joy.
Tender testimony now bears fruit to share—I know He’s there.
--He Lives!
(1-12-2015)

1st stanza refers to:
When I was very young (after I had been baptized), I got up in fast and testimony meeting to bear my testimony.  It was back when you stood in your pew and a microphone was passed to you by one of the deacons.  I tried to speak, but I became so overcome with emotion--I just sat down and cried into my Dad.  He passed the mike back and comforted me.  The spirit started early working on my emotions.

2nd stanza refers to:
I was a teenager in seminary.  We were reading the Book of Mormon for the school year.  I had not quite finished when school was out.  Our ward went on a temple trip immediately after school let out to the Manti temple.  On the way, we stopped at a hotel.  The others went off swimming--I remained behind--determined to get done before going to the temple.  When I read Moroni's promise, I felt a desire to pray and gain my personal witness.  I didn't want to be disturbed by people walking into the hotel room.  I went to an area in the back and knelt to pray.  I received a sure witness.

3rd stanza refers to:
A life of experience and I am still learning to listen and heed.  How can I doubt when so often the spirit witnesses to me?  He lives!


No comments:

Post a Comment