A Slice of Zion

     Three years ago today, I was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I was taught by a beautiful missionary (Sister Stratton ) and her two companions, Sister Willes and Sister Morris (now Sister Holyoak) . Sister Stratton somehow (God probably knew I wouldn't want anyone else) managed to stay in Niceville to teach me all of my baptism lessons, attend my baptism, teach all of my parents' baptism lessons, and see their baptism as well. I'm pretty sure we got almost through the second round of lessons before she was transferred to Fort Walton Beach, a 20 minute drive from Niceville.      In honor of my three year anniversary of baptism, I wanted to share three things I've learned these past few years about Christ, Heavenly Father, and living the gospel: 1. CHRIST AND HEAVENLY FATHER ARE ALWAYS LISTENING: Even when you don't feel like They're listening, when you feel like They don't care...They DO. Hea...

A year and a half ago, I was baptised and confirmed into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Sister Stratton claimed that I was overdosed on the Spirit. However, I have come to know of the huge importance of baptism by fire. In Matthew 3:11 it says, "I indeed baptise you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptise you with the Holy Ghost, and with  fire."  Often, baptism is referred to the cleansing of our spirits. This allows our souls to be worthy vessels of His Spirit. Receiving the Holy Ghost completes the sacred covenant of baptism in my mind. It is our baptism by fire. The fire of the Spirit is often likened unto a refiner's fire. By receiving the sacred gift of His spirit, we are able to be more aptly shaped and guided by His will. His Spirit confirms and testifies of our identity as beautiful sons and daughters of a gracious Heavenly Father.  When you think about...