Mantras from Jesus' Last Day

In preparing to teach the gospel doctrine lesson, I read the assigned scriptures for June 4th (Matthew 26, Mark 14, and John 13) , telling about Jesus' last day in mortality.  As I read, I kept seeing many mantras that Jesus left us to live by on that last day.  Here are some that I noticed:  

She hath done what she could.  Mark 14:8

Lord, is it I? Matthew 26:20

Do this in remembrance of me. Luke 22:19 or Always remember me. (Sacrament prayer)

Ye should do as I have done to you. John 13:15

Thy will be done Matthew 26:19

Love one another  John 13:34

I used these mantras as the outline for our lesson discussion.  It was such a beautiful discussion.  We have such a wonderful ward and the members give such profound insights and comments.  I have loved studying the gospels and the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus Christ.

Tools for Understanding Isaiah

 I recently taught the gospel doctrine lesson on Isaiah.  As usual, I think I learned the most.  Just as it is impossible to cook without kitchen tools, it is impossible to understand and eventually love Isaiah without some tools.  Gleaning from Nephi and other experts, I presented a list of twelve tools to help us understand Isaiah.  I don't claim this is a complete list, but just the twelve I chose.  This has really helped me to understand Isaiah better.

Tools for Understanding Isaiah

1. Slow down-  take your time while reading Isaiah.

2. Know the things of the Jews - this tip comes from Nephi

3. Know the geography of the land he lived in. Another tip from Nephi

4. Know that he spoke in poetic language.

5.  Isaiah used repetition.  He often said the same thing in two or three different ways.

6.  Look for Jesus Christ. Though he didn't use His name, Isaiah spoke of the Savior a lot.

7.  He spoke to his people- like general conference addresses.

8.  He also prophesied of the future.

9.  Expect multiple fulfillments of his words.

10. Look for symbolism.

11.  He speaks to the children of Israel- the children of the covenant.

12.  Write down what you learn so you can remember when you study it again,

I am grateful for the prophet Isaiah and for these tools that help me understand him better.