In my conversation with Trissta this morning, we got around to talking about me being depressed and discouraged, and me going into hibernation as a sign of that depression and feeling like a failure. So, I thought I'd address a little glimpse of my feelings with all of you.
When I was young, probably 8 years old, I was wetting the bed at night. I struggled with it and Mom tried several things to help me stop, I was so embarrassed and my older brothers were terrible to me, because I couldn't control myself when I was asleep. Anyway, I won't try to analyze it, but it was really a tough time for me and I felt like a real failure, because I could not control what I wanted. Well, I finally got really serious about praying for help, and asking the Lord to help me. I was prompted to listen to my dreams, and listen for a que to help me wake up. Well, I started to concentrate more on my dreams and I noticed that when I dreamed, I needed to go pee or something similar, if I woke myself up immediately, I could go to the bathroom and would not have an accident in the bed. I practiced and it worked, even to this day, if I get to dreaming about something similar, if I wake up immediately, I usually need to go to the bathroom. Now the reason I tell you this story is because it seems like much of my life has been failures from my understanding and estimation. However, in the Lord's perspective, he may be seeing me so much differently, he may be seeing it as a success through experience, not a failure from my not achieving what I thought was minimal expectation. I'm sure Mom saw it as a success for me, where I just saw it as just barely meeting minimal standards, and I believe the Lord saw it as success because I learned to rely on him for answers to prayers. I have noticed it in life in general, it seems that all you hear in life is, how you are not meeting minimal standards and you should do better. From losing horses, farms, not finishing houses, failing marriages, failing health and life style, but from the Lords perspective you may be learning from experience exactly what he needs you to learn. He wants you to rely on him and listen to his council. I often think back on the Mormon Pioneers, how they were pushed from place to place and how they must have felt "not good enough or not meeting minimal standards". Was it for their good or was God punishing them. I hope because of all my failures, I am becoming more of what Heavenly Parents desire of me, rather than becoming what I want or expect myself to be, in spite of my Loving Parents. I hope all my failures are leading me to better paths and greater possibilities, rather than keeping me up with other's minimal expectations. I hope as I talk to you and describe my feelings as a failure, I am not depressed. I hope in using the word failure that you understand I am simply using my earthly measuring stick, not viewing myself through eternal glasses, which are the true measure of one's worth and value. I hope all these struggles are getting me somewhere far beyond any earthly prosperity.
When I was young, probably 8 years old, I was wetting the bed at night. I struggled with it and Mom tried several things to help me stop, I was so embarrassed and my older brothers were terrible to me, because I couldn't control myself when I was asleep. Anyway, I won't try to analyze it, but it was really a tough time for me and I felt like a real failure, because I could not control what I wanted. Well, I finally got really serious about praying for help, and asking the Lord to help me. I was prompted to listen to my dreams, and listen for a que to help me wake up. Well, I started to concentrate more on my dreams and I noticed that when I dreamed, I needed to go pee or something similar, if I woke myself up immediately, I could go to the bathroom and would not have an accident in the bed. I practiced and it worked, even to this day, if I get to dreaming about something similar, if I wake up immediately, I usually need to go to the bathroom. Now the reason I tell you this story is because it seems like much of my life has been failures from my understanding and estimation. However, in the Lord's perspective, he may be seeing me so much differently, he may be seeing it as a success through experience, not a failure from my not achieving what I thought was minimal expectation. I'm sure Mom saw it as a success for me, where I just saw it as just barely meeting minimal standards, and I believe the Lord saw it as success because I learned to rely on him for answers to prayers. I have noticed it in life in general, it seems that all you hear in life is, how you are not meeting minimal standards and you should do better. From losing horses, farms, not finishing houses, failing marriages, failing health and life style, but from the Lords perspective you may be learning from experience exactly what he needs you to learn. He wants you to rely on him and listen to his council. I often think back on the Mormon Pioneers, how they were pushed from place to place and how they must have felt "not good enough or not meeting minimal standards". Was it for their good or was God punishing them. I hope because of all my failures, I am becoming more of what Heavenly Parents desire of me, rather than becoming what I want or expect myself to be, in spite of my Loving Parents. I hope all my failures are leading me to better paths and greater possibilities, rather than keeping me up with other's minimal expectations. I hope as I talk to you and describe my feelings as a failure, I am not depressed. I hope in using the word failure that you understand I am simply using my earthly measuring stick, not viewing myself through eternal glasses, which are the true measure of one's worth and value. I hope all these struggles are getting me somewhere far beyond any earthly prosperity.
Feb 9, 2025
I was sitting in church again today and was reminded how we as children continue to fall back on the old sales pitch of Satan. We have been talking much about Brigham Young and Joseph Smith and their weaknesses and committing sin. Often we call out Polygamy, treatment of Blacks, Indians and Mountain Meadow, we hear of Temple Ordinances that have changed dramatically. Both Joseph and Brigham have on several occasions admitted to faults and imperfections. As my mind pondered on it, I was impressed by a better understanding:
HOW WE OFTEN FIND COMFORT BY RELYING ON TEACHINGS FROM THE PAST:
We talk much about Predestination and Foreordination, but often get the two of them entangled and overlapping in our minds. If we think back on the Plan presented by Satan, we remember that he wanted all of Father’s children to be directed and influenced, to live sin free lives. To have no choice, but be kept in order and in line, much like herding cattle or sheep, no one is to be lost. If we analyze the plan to live in such a way, is to give up our agency and follow a leader, someone in charge. In this case, Satan wanted to be that leader. In that plan “Predestination” would be the plan of progression, as each step would need to be calculated, as to not have anyone stray or be misled.
The Savior’s plan was to have each of us choose to do right and experience, by making mistakes. Not having everything planned or coordinated, but reacting to conditions or changes as we moved forward in progression. This plan required that we learn or gain information through knowledgeable or inspired individuals, as they would pass their understanding on to us through word of mouth, then we would be allowed to act or react to those instructions as we felt necessary. This plan was based on “Foreordination” because even those who we relied on and looked up to, would need to be free to choose and experience for themselves. Each individual able to learn and progress for themselves. I guess what I am trying to say is that, if we are truly living the Savior’s Plan then Joseph, Brigham, President Nelson and even the Savior would have been Foreordained to callings and not predestined to act or react in specific ways.
I have been asked if I believe Brigham was a prophet, because he excommunicated Amasa, and I feel Amasa was truly an Apostle. I do believe that Joseph, Brigham and President Nelson are Prophets of God and are called to lead the Church, I do believe if any had or have committed serious mistakes, leading the Church astray, they would have been taken from their calling and another would have been put in their place. The Lord’s plan will not be frustrated, but is often readjusted to meet the needs and progression of the Kingdom of God on Earth. We need to remember to place our faith in the plan and not in the people, for as soon as we start following people, we again choose the desires and plan of Satan.
I was sitting in church again today and was reminded how we as children continue to fall back on the old sales pitch of Satan. We have been talking much about Brigham Young and Joseph Smith and their weaknesses and committing sin. Often we call out Polygamy, treatment of Blacks, Indians and Mountain Meadow, we hear of Temple Ordinances that have changed dramatically. Both Joseph and Brigham have on several occasions admitted to faults and imperfections. As my mind pondered on it, I was impressed by a better understanding:
HOW WE OFTEN FIND COMFORT BY RELYING ON TEACHINGS FROM THE PAST:
We talk much about Predestination and Foreordination, but often get the two of them entangled and overlapping in our minds. If we think back on the Plan presented by Satan, we remember that he wanted all of Father’s children to be directed and influenced, to live sin free lives. To have no choice, but be kept in order and in line, much like herding cattle or sheep, no one is to be lost. If we analyze the plan to live in such a way, is to give up our agency and follow a leader, someone in charge. In this case, Satan wanted to be that leader. In that plan “Predestination” would be the plan of progression, as each step would need to be calculated, as to not have anyone stray or be misled.
The Savior’s plan was to have each of us choose to do right and experience, by making mistakes. Not having everything planned or coordinated, but reacting to conditions or changes as we moved forward in progression. This plan required that we learn or gain information through knowledgeable or inspired individuals, as they would pass their understanding on to us through word of mouth, then we would be allowed to act or react to those instructions as we felt necessary. This plan was based on “Foreordination” because even those who we relied on and looked up to, would need to be free to choose and experience for themselves. Each individual able to learn and progress for themselves. I guess what I am trying to say is that, if we are truly living the Savior’s Plan then Joseph, Brigham, President Nelson and even the Savior would have been Foreordained to callings and not predestined to act or react in specific ways.
I have been asked if I believe Brigham was a prophet, because he excommunicated Amasa, and I feel Amasa was truly an Apostle. I do believe that Joseph, Brigham and President Nelson are Prophets of God and are called to lead the Church, I do believe if any had or have committed serious mistakes, leading the Church astray, they would have been taken from their calling and another would have been put in their place. The Lord’s plan will not be frustrated, but is often readjusted to meet the needs and progression of the Kingdom of God on Earth. We need to remember to place our faith in the plan and not in the people, for as soon as we start following people, we again choose the desires and plan of Satan.
I feel obligated to again share my thoughts and feelings about this website: It is not my intent to criticize the Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints or Brigham Young for the events that lead to Amasa's excommunication. I firmly believe that the Lord inspires and communicates with man on earth, The Church and the Prophets are the way he has chosen to give us those things we need for our eternal progression and growth. He also communicates through Apostles and other leaders, to help inspire and encourage us. I believe Amasa was an Apostle, and when he spoke under inspiration he did so as a representative of the Lord. I also believe, as Leaders these individuals get a glimpse of heaven, and often the picture they perceive is not the whole picture, and in communicating that image, by words, to us, they are not always "translated correctly". I strongly believe when Amasa spoke words, that would get him excommunicated, he clearly saw the picture of what he was saying, confusion only came when others looked at the words and saw a different picture. I also believe the teachings of the Church today more clearly follows what Amasa was teaching, than the members of the Church believed at the time he was dismissed. We as members of the Church have changed, progressed and been refined, we are different from when the Church first began. I believe it has advanced because of many faithful individuals who were eventually discarded, but we owe an eternal gratitude to, many such as Emma, Oliver Cowdery, Sidney Rigdon, Martin Harris, the Whitmers. I hope we don't allow pride, to make us forget all those who have given so much for us to get so far. We are who we are, because we stand on the shoulders of great men that have established the foundations of our past.
That is why I have dedicated this website to remembering Amasa and his family.
That is why I have dedicated this website to remembering Amasa and his family.
I have been ask by many why I am doing all this stuff about Amasa, I was reminded today and hope you may feel as we do:
Heleman 5:6-7
... I have given you the name of our first parents who came out of the land of Jerusalem; and this I have done that when you remember your names ye may remember them; and when ye remember them ye may remember their works; and when ye remember their works ye may know how that it is said, and also written, that they were good.
7. Therefore, my sons, I would that ye should do that which is good, that it may be said of you, and also written, even as it has been said and written of them
Heleman 5:6-7
... I have given you the name of our first parents who came out of the land of Jerusalem; and this I have done that when you remember your names ye may remember them; and when ye remember them ye may remember their works; and when ye remember their works ye may know how that it is said, and also written, that they were good.
7. Therefore, my sons, I would that ye should do that which is good, that it may be said of you, and also written, even as it has been said and written of them
WHAT AT-ONE-MENT?
We talk of the Atonement and think of the cross,
the life he gave freely, oh what a great loss.
But was there more, that we don’t understand,
did he do something more, in making his stand.
Of Adam and Eve, we understand it quite clear.
They partook of the fruit that brought us all here.
They made the decision, they chose to taste death.
They accepted the challenge and took a deep breath.
Cheribum and the flaming sword being placed in the path,
of the tree of life, and all that the Father hath.
But what does it mean, to be kept from the Tree,
of life and happiness and all that we wanted to be.
The Cheribum were white birds placed to cover the Arch,
a veil so to speak, to keep it separate and apart.
A symbol of separation, from Father and Mother,
to touch them to feel them, to rely on another.
The flaming sword is easy to see,
it’s death itself, that keeps us from the tree.
The tree of life, with fruit so sweet and good,
death keeps us from it, to taste if we could.
But what did Christ do, that day on the cross.
That saved us from death, and made up for the loss.
He raised from the dead, it’s there for us all to see.
He overcame death, then shared it with you and me.
But process the feeling, about things he has done,
is that what we need, to follow him, to “be one”.
He certainly hasn’t asked us, to die on a cross,
to give our lives freely, would it be a waisted loss.
When he died on the cross, was it the blood that he spilt.
No!! wait he didn’t, it was bodily fluid that they felt.
Was it then, that the burden was to heavy to bear,
or the loss of his friends, because no one was there.
Think back on the pain, when he was in the Garden,
when Judas was jealous, and there was no pardon.
Was Ciaphas and Pilot predestined to kill,
if they had repented, would it have defeated God’s will.
It can’t be the cross or his death, that’s predestined to be,
or what’s the purpose of choice, and the chance to be free.
When I think of the Atonement and want clearly to see,
there must be more to it, something left for us to be.
If he’s already done it, and we are all one with the Father,
then what is the purpose, why even bother.
It must be the experience, not just a single event,
the reason we’re here, and why the Savior was sent.
Was there more in the Garden, it must be more than the tree,
that made Jesus suffer, and carry that burden for me.
Was it something to do with Cheribum or the Veil,
that lead him to bleed and go through a living hell.
Was it a death that he suffered, in the Garden to know,
the path we must take, and the way we Should go.
Did he learn from Angels, though the veil was he sent.
learning the way we must follow, is that what he meant
Is it that pathway, that he was sent here to find,
that opened the heavens, to those who followed behind.
Was it simply the knowledge, that man couldn’t see,
that Jesus our Savior discovered, and was sent here to be.
We are often confused, with this single event,
why Jesus came here, and why he was sent.
Was it to die or be killed , it can’t really be,
for many have died for our God, before he.
Was it punishment or to suffer, was that what he come for,
was it death, or to stop evil or to “open a door”.
We think of the Savior, and his life without sin,
but was it his death, or life, that would let us all in.
To think, if Jesus was only sent to die on the cross,
would all of his good works, be to us a great loss.
The Atonement must be more than just that tree,
that brings the new life for you and for me.
The cross is important, for the things that were done,
but when it comes to his directive, becoming as one.
We must do more, than just give up our own life,
there’s more to conquering, in this world full of strife.
The Atonement is more, than a snapshot we take,
it is living our best, it’s the memories we make.
It must be more suffering in the garden, that’s done,
than the minutes on the cross, that can make us as one.
The Savior’s Atonement is not just a moment sublime,
It’s a lifelong process, doing your best all the time.
The Savior’s life was not wasted, or given in vain,
but it’s the life that he lives, that we need to retain.
The Atonement is not limited to death on the cross,
but extends through all time, to make up for our loss.
It began with a son’s proposal, a simple made plan,
that we may be like Them, “the eternal progress of man”.
It happened back then, when we all answered the call,
we chose to go through life, that began at the Fall.
The Atonement will continue from that day it begun,
to the time of judgment, when we can become one.
Each day he has been there, each day he will cry,
continue, press forward, it don’t end when you die.
You can make it, keep trying your destiny’s divine,
just keep pushing forward, it’s only a matter of time.
The Savior has commanded for us to become one
with the Father and him, the only begotten son.
For this is the Atonement, to be one with the Father,
overcome evil, and be united with our Elder Brother.
Jack N. Lyman
We talk of the Atonement and think of the cross,
the life he gave freely, oh what a great loss.
But was there more, that we don’t understand,
did he do something more, in making his stand.
Of Adam and Eve, we understand it quite clear.
They partook of the fruit that brought us all here.
They made the decision, they chose to taste death.
They accepted the challenge and took a deep breath.
Cheribum and the flaming sword being placed in the path,
of the tree of life, and all that the Father hath.
But what does it mean, to be kept from the Tree,
of life and happiness and all that we wanted to be.
The Cheribum were white birds placed to cover the Arch,
a veil so to speak, to keep it separate and apart.
A symbol of separation, from Father and Mother,
to touch them to feel them, to rely on another.
The flaming sword is easy to see,
it’s death itself, that keeps us from the tree.
The tree of life, with fruit so sweet and good,
death keeps us from it, to taste if we could.
But what did Christ do, that day on the cross.
That saved us from death, and made up for the loss.
He raised from the dead, it’s there for us all to see.
He overcame death, then shared it with you and me.
But process the feeling, about things he has done,
is that what we need, to follow him, to “be one”.
He certainly hasn’t asked us, to die on a cross,
to give our lives freely, would it be a waisted loss.
When he died on the cross, was it the blood that he spilt.
No!! wait he didn’t, it was bodily fluid that they felt.
Was it then, that the burden was to heavy to bear,
or the loss of his friends, because no one was there.
Think back on the pain, when he was in the Garden,
when Judas was jealous, and there was no pardon.
Was Ciaphas and Pilot predestined to kill,
if they had repented, would it have defeated God’s will.
It can’t be the cross or his death, that’s predestined to be,
or what’s the purpose of choice, and the chance to be free.
When I think of the Atonement and want clearly to see,
there must be more to it, something left for us to be.
If he’s already done it, and we are all one with the Father,
then what is the purpose, why even bother.
It must be the experience, not just a single event,
the reason we’re here, and why the Savior was sent.
Was there more in the Garden, it must be more than the tree,
that made Jesus suffer, and carry that burden for me.
Was it something to do with Cheribum or the Veil,
that lead him to bleed and go through a living hell.
Was it a death that he suffered, in the Garden to know,
the path we must take, and the way we Should go.
Did he learn from Angels, though the veil was he sent.
learning the way we must follow, is that what he meant
Is it that pathway, that he was sent here to find,
that opened the heavens, to those who followed behind.
Was it simply the knowledge, that man couldn’t see,
that Jesus our Savior discovered, and was sent here to be.
We are often confused, with this single event,
why Jesus came here, and why he was sent.
Was it to die or be killed , it can’t really be,
for many have died for our God, before he.
Was it punishment or to suffer, was that what he come for,
was it death, or to stop evil or to “open a door”.
We think of the Savior, and his life without sin,
but was it his death, or life, that would let us all in.
To think, if Jesus was only sent to die on the cross,
would all of his good works, be to us a great loss.
The Atonement must be more than just that tree,
that brings the new life for you and for me.
The cross is important, for the things that were done,
but when it comes to his directive, becoming as one.
We must do more, than just give up our own life,
there’s more to conquering, in this world full of strife.
The Atonement is more, than a snapshot we take,
it is living our best, it’s the memories we make.
It must be more suffering in the garden, that’s done,
than the minutes on the cross, that can make us as one.
The Savior’s Atonement is not just a moment sublime,
It’s a lifelong process, doing your best all the time.
The Savior’s life was not wasted, or given in vain,
but it’s the life that he lives, that we need to retain.
The Atonement is not limited to death on the cross,
but extends through all time, to make up for our loss.
It began with a son’s proposal, a simple made plan,
that we may be like Them, “the eternal progress of man”.
It happened back then, when we all answered the call,
we chose to go through life, that began at the Fall.
The Atonement will continue from that day it begun,
to the time of judgment, when we can become one.
Each day he has been there, each day he will cry,
continue, press forward, it don’t end when you die.
You can make it, keep trying your destiny’s divine,
just keep pushing forward, it’s only a matter of time.
The Savior has commanded for us to become one
with the Father and him, the only begotten son.
For this is the Atonement, to be one with the Father,
overcome evil, and be united with our Elder Brother.
Jack N. Lyman
COME, COME TO ME
Many talk of the atonement, of the Savior’s grace
but being saved is not an end, it’s not just a place
It is escaping this prison, from sin and despair
but it’s not all there is, when you get over there
The heavens are filled, with those who confess
but with their salvation, they stop their progress
They acknowledge to others, that I am their Lord
But their simple confession, is all they can afford
They brag and confess, of this great thing they did
often related to a symbol, they made as a kid
However they act, as if it is their ultimate goal
while their complacency, will take a great tole
For it’s not only the emotion, that gets through the gate
that prepares you for heaven, all that can possibly await
For just as a child, who has been born on this earth
the man you become, isn’t brought in your birth
It is the steps you take, after hitting the ground
The learning and progression you make with each sound
by running and playing, you begin to learn and enjoy
This life is made up of living, using every new toy
You can enter this life, and stand back in the crowd
Or become a great player, being anxious and loud
You can become very active, in playing from the start
That’s where joy comes, from your become a part
Eternal life and exaltation, are not getting there
It’s overcoming, struggles and learning to care
Its movement and action, that influences the head
not the sitting and waiting, as though you were dead
The Atonement only gives us, the things we need
providing the opportunity, to move forward and succeed
To reach for the possibility, to learn and to grow
giving us the ability, to learn the things we don’t know
To open other gates, that we can walk through
to learn from Heavenly Parents, the things we can do
It opens the Heavens, so we can peak in
and learn what it’s like to become more like them
Life is a pathway, that leads us somewhere
not a destination, that gets us, all over there
We walk the pathway, and like an old farmer’s son
we learn how to plant, and become more like one
It leads to possibilities, beyond our imagination
Peace and true joy, treasures beyond comprehension
Where we can enjoy life, and live as families together
everlasting life that comes, from progression forever
Jack N. Lyman
Many talk of the atonement, of the Savior’s grace
but being saved is not an end, it’s not just a place
It is escaping this prison, from sin and despair
but it’s not all there is, when you get over there
The heavens are filled, with those who confess
but with their salvation, they stop their progress
They acknowledge to others, that I am their Lord
But their simple confession, is all they can afford
They brag and confess, of this great thing they did
often related to a symbol, they made as a kid
However they act, as if it is their ultimate goal
while their complacency, will take a great tole
For it’s not only the emotion, that gets through the gate
that prepares you for heaven, all that can possibly await
For just as a child, who has been born on this earth
the man you become, isn’t brought in your birth
It is the steps you take, after hitting the ground
The learning and progression you make with each sound
by running and playing, you begin to learn and enjoy
This life is made up of living, using every new toy
You can enter this life, and stand back in the crowd
Or become a great player, being anxious and loud
You can become very active, in playing from the start
That’s where joy comes, from your become a part
Eternal life and exaltation, are not getting there
It’s overcoming, struggles and learning to care
Its movement and action, that influences the head
not the sitting and waiting, as though you were dead
The Atonement only gives us, the things we need
providing the opportunity, to move forward and succeed
To reach for the possibility, to learn and to grow
giving us the ability, to learn the things we don’t know
To open other gates, that we can walk through
to learn from Heavenly Parents, the things we can do
It opens the Heavens, so we can peak in
and learn what it’s like to become more like them
Life is a pathway, that leads us somewhere
not a destination, that gets us, all over there
We walk the pathway, and like an old farmer’s son
we learn how to plant, and become more like one
It leads to possibilities, beyond our imagination
Peace and true joy, treasures beyond comprehension
Where we can enjoy life, and live as families together
everlasting life that comes, from progression forever
Jack N. Lyman
Prodigal Son
I have reflected a lot lately, about the prodigal son
how the story was over, when it had only begun
How the older brother, was upset and confused
the younger had returned, and the fatted calf was used
Why after all he had done, was he then pushed aside
while his brother returned, and was treated with pride
saying “look at all he has done, when I stood by your side
While he frolicked and played, taking you for a ride
I watched over you, protected, working both day and night
I labored and struggled, and tried to make your day bright
while he was frivolous, spent the money, blew it all away
I would have done anything, to make you happy each day
You’re cheering and cooking, feasting on the best calf
hugging and kissing, everyone’s having a great laugh
while I’m out here working, until way after dark
you want me to leave chores, come and play in the park
The story wasn’t finished, and will be forever be untold
What of the man and his sons, as he continued to grow old
Was the young son brought back, did he win back his place
Did the older loose out, as they continued running the race
As brothers in this life, we often look and compare
As we struggle and fight, is anything equal or fair
We are here working for salvation, day after day
When we look at the others, who party and play
Then they come home, after they have played it all away
they step up to the plate, as if they have been there all day
What happens to those, who are rebellious and repent in the end
They come back, are honored, everyone welcomes the lost friend
Working here day after day, wondering what can it all be for
Why didn’t I just stop working, and run out the door
I could easily come home, after I had my great fun
Enjoying the blessings, from the work someone else had done
I often thought and pondered, then one day I realized
it wasn’t really the farm, that the old man had prized
It is what the old man wanted, for his children to be
It’s value, not volume, that makes a man’s worth don’t you see
If he lost all he had, the older son could build it again
With knowledge and wisdom, the knowledge within him
What he had was, not in what he could hold in his hand
But the ability to make it, it was what made him a man
Not the soil or possession, but with his power he could win
Through work and dedication, He could do it all over again
We often think of our lives as things we have acquired.
but it is what we gained getting there, that is ultimately desired
It’s the knowledge and understanding, the patience we endure.
The value of the man, not the possessions, that make him secure.
It’s not beauty, talent or great strength, we are naturally blessed
It’s the touching, feeling, experience, it’s how we’ve progressed
The Prodigal son’s returning, will be celebrated, and greatly blessed
With open arms, a loving family and place for his rest
But what he has abandoned from years of neglect and misuse
Precious treasures of knowledge, man can’t afford to lose
While the faithful brother, will continue on down his path
Gaining greater knowledge and understanding, all his Father hath
Moving further and higher, with each day he’ll continue to grow
Becoming better, more efficient, the greater wisdom he’ll know
Jack N. Lyman
I have reflected a lot lately, about the prodigal son
how the story was over, when it had only begun
How the older brother, was upset and confused
the younger had returned, and the fatted calf was used
Why after all he had done, was he then pushed aside
while his brother returned, and was treated with pride
saying “look at all he has done, when I stood by your side
While he frolicked and played, taking you for a ride
I watched over you, protected, working both day and night
I labored and struggled, and tried to make your day bright
while he was frivolous, spent the money, blew it all away
I would have done anything, to make you happy each day
You’re cheering and cooking, feasting on the best calf
hugging and kissing, everyone’s having a great laugh
while I’m out here working, until way after dark
you want me to leave chores, come and play in the park
The story wasn’t finished, and will be forever be untold
What of the man and his sons, as he continued to grow old
Was the young son brought back, did he win back his place
Did the older loose out, as they continued running the race
As brothers in this life, we often look and compare
As we struggle and fight, is anything equal or fair
We are here working for salvation, day after day
When we look at the others, who party and play
Then they come home, after they have played it all away
they step up to the plate, as if they have been there all day
What happens to those, who are rebellious and repent in the end
They come back, are honored, everyone welcomes the lost friend
Working here day after day, wondering what can it all be for
Why didn’t I just stop working, and run out the door
I could easily come home, after I had my great fun
Enjoying the blessings, from the work someone else had done
I often thought and pondered, then one day I realized
it wasn’t really the farm, that the old man had prized
It is what the old man wanted, for his children to be
It’s value, not volume, that makes a man’s worth don’t you see
If he lost all he had, the older son could build it again
With knowledge and wisdom, the knowledge within him
What he had was, not in what he could hold in his hand
But the ability to make it, it was what made him a man
Not the soil or possession, but with his power he could win
Through work and dedication, He could do it all over again
We often think of our lives as things we have acquired.
but it is what we gained getting there, that is ultimately desired
It’s the knowledge and understanding, the patience we endure.
The value of the man, not the possessions, that make him secure.
It’s not beauty, talent or great strength, we are naturally blessed
It’s the touching, feeling, experience, it’s how we’ve progressed
The Prodigal son’s returning, will be celebrated, and greatly blessed
With open arms, a loving family and place for his rest
But what he has abandoned from years of neglect and misuse
Precious treasures of knowledge, man can’t afford to lose
While the faithful brother, will continue on down his path
Gaining greater knowledge and understanding, all his Father hath
Moving further and higher, with each day he’ll continue to grow
Becoming better, more efficient, the greater wisdom he’ll know
Jack N. Lyman
| mydadjacklyman.pdf |
| interview_with_ivanlyman.pdf |
My own personal feelings and thoughts
Thank you all very much who supported the Amasa Mason Lyman Reunion in Fillmore. It was great to participate and listen. What a great family we have.
My mind was wandering on the way home and I realized that for the last 15 years I have been going to the reunion, expecting to hear the Church make some statement about how the Church has forgiven Amasa, for what they saw as Apostacy. Then a feeling came to mind that Amasa is not looking for forgivness from the Church, as it has little relevance in the eternal perspective, he is only looking for our forgivness and respect. His love is focused on us as his children. Ultimately you are all he ever really cared about and he only wanted you to have the best he could offer in that eternal perspective. "Not as great Church leader, but a man like unto God"
My mind was wandering on the way home and I realized that for the last 15 years I have been going to the reunion, expecting to hear the Church make some statement about how the Church has forgiven Amasa, for what they saw as Apostacy. Then a feeling came to mind that Amasa is not looking for forgivness from the Church, as it has little relevance in the eternal perspective, he is only looking for our forgivness and respect. His love is focused on us as his children. Ultimately you are all he ever really cared about and he only wanted you to have the best he could offer in that eternal perspective. "Not as great Church leader, but a man like unto God"
Jack's ramblings:
I have often thought as I have studied Amasa's words, "Is the total of the Lord's Plan, for our Eternal Exaltation, dependent upon Satan's success here on the earth."
As we talk of:
1. Adam and Eve, were driven out of the garden, because Satan won in his influence, and beguiling them to choose wrong.
2. We teach that the whole world was destroyed during Noah's time because Satan succeeded.
3. We even learn that in modern times the LDS were driven from Missouri and Illinois because Satan won.
4. We are taught that we are "SAVED" because Satan won in his influence over Judas, the Jewish rulers, Potiphar, and the Roman Legions, "Christ was crucified" because Satan succeeded.
I really hope when it comes to the end of our lives, we are not on the wrong side of the fence in our perspectives. Does our eternal progression really depend on "Satan's Success". I don't believe it I never will, I have always looked for the successes behind these failures and not on Satan's winning. There is far more than the "cross" to the savior's success and we need to look beyond the moment. Did he save us all, or just open the gate, and it is up to us to walk through. Are we walking or are we still watching and waiting on the wrong side of the fence.
I have often thought as I have studied Amasa's words, "Is the total of the Lord's Plan, for our Eternal Exaltation, dependent upon Satan's success here on the earth."
As we talk of:
1. Adam and Eve, were driven out of the garden, because Satan won in his influence, and beguiling them to choose wrong.
2. We teach that the whole world was destroyed during Noah's time because Satan succeeded.
3. We even learn that in modern times the LDS were driven from Missouri and Illinois because Satan won.
4. We are taught that we are "SAVED" because Satan won in his influence over Judas, the Jewish rulers, Potiphar, and the Roman Legions, "Christ was crucified" because Satan succeeded.
I really hope when it comes to the end of our lives, we are not on the wrong side of the fence in our perspectives. Does our eternal progression really depend on "Satan's Success". I don't believe it I never will, I have always looked for the successes behind these failures and not on Satan's winning. There is far more than the "cross" to the savior's success and we need to look beyond the moment. Did he save us all, or just open the gate, and it is up to us to walk through. Are we walking or are we still watching and waiting on the wrong side of the fence.
| reflectionsofamasajnl.pdf |
| dates.doc |
| thelivingchrist.doc |
| aml01atonement.pdf |
| amasa-atonement.pdf |
| recipebook_all_2010printing3.doc |
| jacknlymanhistory2013.doc |
| visionsbookjnl(poems).pdf |
| youth.doc |
| tlk2018.docx |
| talk_may_2021.docx |
FROM THE SON (John 15)
The scriptures are filled, with what others say about me.
But often you read over, what I really want you to be.
Some say I was predestined, to complete this great task.
To do what was required, the things Father had asked.
But I want you to know, as you think about me,
It’s not about things, its what I want you to be.
Some say it was blood, as I hung from the cross,
others believe it was life, the sacrifice, the loss.
Yet others look at the garden, the pain that I bore.
The suffering I experienced, as I bled from every pore.
The blood I spilt, that your sins might be forgiven.
The life I laid down, so you could continue living.
It’s not things that matter, it’s why they are done.
It’s not about things, it’s all about loving someone.
What I did, wasn’t as important, as purpose you see.
It is the reason, I have done them, it’s not about me.
The Garden was agonizing, as I knelt by the tree,
as I thought of my own grief, I struggled you see.
I prayed to the Father, and shook with such fear,
then I thought about you, and it all became clear.
I thought about family, you, my loved ones so dear.
It took only a minute, and all became quite clear.
I forgot all the suffering, and my own miserable pain,
If I had to choose over, I do it all over again.
It is often forgotten, with the cross and the pain.
The purpose for my life, the real reason I came.
It’s not about things, that have freely been given.
It’s what you do with them, its all about you living.
Salvation truly was given, when I hung on that tree,
as I struggled and suffered, in that pain and agony.
It’s not the things that I did, that matters most, don’t you see.
It’s the reason I did them, it was not about me.
It was you that I dreamed of, as I knelt under the tree.
How I wanted you to become like, our Father and me.
It is you that I thought of, as I struggled in prayer,
You that I yearned for, to come follow me there.
As you drive down life’s highway, and look into the mirror,
The purpose of your life, I hope you see so much clearer.
As you see all you’ve been given, to get you this far,
Remember now, your driving and controlling this car.
It’s nice to give praise, for all you received from above,
But remember it’s not things, it’s all about Love.
The things I have done, gave a road and a vehicle for you,
To get you where your going, to do what you need to do.
But it’s you now doing the driving, and controlling the car.
You determine what you need, and where you really are.
I’ve given you the path, and opportunity don’t you see,
To be like Heavenly Parents, and to come and live with me.
Jack N. Lyman
The scriptures are filled, with what others say about me.
But often you read over, what I really want you to be.
Some say I was predestined, to complete this great task.
To do what was required, the things Father had asked.
But I want you to know, as you think about me,
It’s not about things, its what I want you to be.
Some say it was blood, as I hung from the cross,
others believe it was life, the sacrifice, the loss.
Yet others look at the garden, the pain that I bore.
The suffering I experienced, as I bled from every pore.
The blood I spilt, that your sins might be forgiven.
The life I laid down, so you could continue living.
It’s not things that matter, it’s why they are done.
It’s not about things, it’s all about loving someone.
What I did, wasn’t as important, as purpose you see.
It is the reason, I have done them, it’s not about me.
The Garden was agonizing, as I knelt by the tree,
as I thought of my own grief, I struggled you see.
I prayed to the Father, and shook with such fear,
then I thought about you, and it all became clear.
I thought about family, you, my loved ones so dear.
It took only a minute, and all became quite clear.
I forgot all the suffering, and my own miserable pain,
If I had to choose over, I do it all over again.
It is often forgotten, with the cross and the pain.
The purpose for my life, the real reason I came.
It’s not about things, that have freely been given.
It’s what you do with them, its all about you living.
Salvation truly was given, when I hung on that tree,
as I struggled and suffered, in that pain and agony.
It’s not the things that I did, that matters most, don’t you see.
It’s the reason I did them, it was not about me.
It was you that I dreamed of, as I knelt under the tree.
How I wanted you to become like, our Father and me.
It is you that I thought of, as I struggled in prayer,
You that I yearned for, to come follow me there.
As you drive down life’s highway, and look into the mirror,
The purpose of your life, I hope you see so much clearer.
As you see all you’ve been given, to get you this far,
Remember now, your driving and controlling this car.
It’s nice to give praise, for all you received from above,
But remember it’s not things, it’s all about Love.
The things I have done, gave a road and a vehicle for you,
To get you where your going, to do what you need to do.
But it’s you now doing the driving, and controlling the car.
You determine what you need, and where you really are.
I’ve given you the path, and opportunity don’t you see,
To be like Heavenly Parents, and to come and live with me.
Jack N. Lyman
