Reading 2nd Nephi

I have set the goal of reading 5 pages a day in the Book of Mormon, and am now on page 136.  I am amazed at how we set goals and how big a part determination and commitment or resolve plays into the success of achieving that goal. I have had experience and success with dieting where I get into that zone where nothing else matters.


I have been able to "power through" 2nd Nephi, a place where many get bogged down.  I heard a story of a soldier in an LDS platoon of the Utah National Guard deployed to Vietnam, whose life was saved by the BofM carried in his chest pocket. The bullet hit him there and he was knocked down by the force of the bullet, but it did not penetrate.  His reported comment to his buddies was: "See, nothing makes it through 2nd Nephi!"


Interestingly, I have found several "gems" in my reading in 2nd Nephi.  As you read the scriptures, you will often find the familiar passages, and say "Oh yeah!  That's where that was." 
Of all the grandchildren, I only remember the birth statistics of Katie Blanchard.  She was 7 lbs, 14 oz, and 21" long.  With everything being a multiple of 7, that was easy.  


The scripture that I found is also easy to find.  It is 2nd Nephi, chapter 2, verse 2.  Lehi is getting ready to die, and is giving his last blessing to Jacob. 


"Nevertheless, Jacob, my first born in the wilderness, thou knowest the greatness of God, and He shall consecrate thine afflictions for thy gain."


My thoughts immediately turned to Joie.  Of all the times we spend on our knees pleading with Heavenly Father for her wellbeing. The struggles and the worries we endured and suffered.  But yet, she is the reason we are close to Heavenly Father.  She is the reason our family is so blessed.  Our "afflictions" have truly been consecrated for our gain.


I am grateful for His blessings.




Here is a family picture from Jeni and Jason that came today.  It was taken on Lindsey's baptism day last week.  Their son Eli is now 6 months old and is such a cutie.  I have this delightful "vision" of Eli, once he learns to crawl, terrorizing his 3 older sisters by getting into "their stuff".

Kamryn, Eli, Jeni, Jason, Maya, and, Lindsey.

Our love to our family.  We are doing fine and are busy preparing for the changeover of Mission Presidents happening in 10 days.

Dad