Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Hard Doctrines of Christ

Hard Doctrines of Christ
 
It seems that there are many Christians in the world today that have taken up the belief that Jesus patient and tolerant and accepts each of us as we are without expectations on our part to change, repent or grow into something more. I agree that Jesus the Christ is patient, loving, forgiving and compassionate. However, discipleship also requires, as the word implies, discipline. The upward path of the Christian is fraught with obstacles, hardships and disability. It is the path of continual introspection, evaluation and change. Stricken from the vocabulary should be phrases such as "I can't change, This is just the way I am."

The Savior's call to repent is an invitation to change your heart. True repentance occurs only when your heart is changed or transformed. Behavior, of course, will follow. We are invited to be renewed, redeemed and restored. But change is hard and usually requires effort and strength beyond our capabilities. Fortunately, the admonition to become a "new creature" in Christ brings with it spiritual guidance and support that can make all the difference. As we take the Holy Spirit as our guide (most often felt as promptings, thoughts and ideas from your conscience), we are led on the path of service and sacrifice. (Understand that a sacrifice is giving up something of lesser value for something much greater.)

Jesus was approached by a young man with a question:
 
KJV - Matthew 19:16-26
16 ¶And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?
 Christ answers that he should keep the commandments. 
 20 The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?
 21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.
 22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.

I fear that many of us are like this young man. We are keeping all of the commandments, but we lack that one thing. Namely, detaching ourselves from our comforts and possessions and serving those in need. While few of us are called to sell our possessions and give them to the poor, we are expected to bless and serve those in need. 

In Matthew Chapter 25, Jesus pairs two parables together, which build up each other. In each of these parables effort and preparation are required to accomplish the task at hand.
 
In the parable of the 10 Virgins, all are worthy and have been invited to the wedding feast. Or in other words, all 10 have been keeping the commandments to the extent that they felt qualified to meet with the bridegroom (in this case the Savior). However, only 5 calculated what may be required and prepared for additional needs - namely that they may have to wait for a while is the bridegrooms coming is delayed, which would mean that extra lamp oil would be needed. When the cry came to meet the bridegroom, each virgin needed to be self-sufficient and could not lend any of their oil to the others. Now the foolish virgins seemed to have the financial means to purchase oil, which they ran off to the merchants to get, but they were not prepared at the time.

By the time they got back and returned to the marriage, it was too late and the Lord denied even knowing them. Wow, that seems like of harsh! He concludes with the advice to "Watch" or prepare.
 
Tied to and directly following this parable, with no commentary between the two, is the parable of the talents. A man traveling into a far country gives stewardship over his goods to his servants - divided unequally presumably based on the faithfulness or skill level of each servant. He expects them to manage these assets profitably. Upon the masters return, those given 5 and 2 talents produced a good return, while the servant given one talent was unprofitable. The Lord, of course, was please with the profitable servants and not pleased with the other.

These two parables are tied together as Christ differentiates between those who are judged to be righteous or wicked. "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." Those who are considered righteous, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, house the stranger, visit the sick and imprisoned, essentially care for those who are in need. The wicked are those who don't do these things.

Could it be that "goodness" in the Lords eyes is based on serving those in need, more than simply "keeping the commandments"?

King Benjamin put it this way: "I would that ye should impart of your substance to the poor, every man according to that which he hath, such as feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and administering to their relief, both spiritually and temporally, according to their wants." - It is interesting that we give and serve "according to their wants." The implication here is that judgment is taken out of the equation. It is not my job to determine for someone else, what is a need vs a want.

In the great Sermon on the Mount, Christ teaches:
21 ¶Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father, which is in heaven.
 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (KJV Matthew 7:21-23)
It would appear that more is required than simply "confessing the name of Jesus" or considering within ourselves we are good Christian.

We are misled if we think that we can discharge our obligations to the poor and needy by shifting responsibility to the government or some other public agency. Only by voluntarily giving, out of abundance of love for our neighbor (defined as - those within the circle of your influence) can the pure love of Christ be developed. Jesus seems to give administering to the poor and needy top priority.  

In ancient times in Israel, Moses taught true principles of welfare.  (Levitcus 19:9-10) 
 
Farmers in that day, were instructed, during harvest, to leave the corners of their fields for the poor to come by later and glean - "harvest the leftovers". This program taught two basic principles namely (1) those who have - are to give, and (2) those who receive - are to work. Idleness back then as well as today is not a godly virtue.

Lest we judge those who may fit the biblical definition of being idle, we are taught that it is not our place to judge the poor and needy.
Joseph Smith taught, "Indolent and unworthy the beggar may be - but that is not your concern: It is better, to feed ten impostors than to run the risk of turning away one honest petition." We are called upon to bless the lives of those whom the Lord will put within our influence, as well as provide support to worthy organizations dedicated to helping those in need.  
 
Once Mother Theresa was asked how she could continue day after day after day, visiting the terminally ill: feeding them, touching them, wiping their brows, giving them comfort as they lay dying. And she said, "It's not hard, because in each one I see the face of Christ in one of His more distressing disguises."

And so, to me, it would appear that the difference between the righteous and the wicked can be distilled down to our attitude of how we treat those who are poor and in need. This is certainly, (speaking only for myself,) something worth contemplation, self-evaluation and reconsidering how I conduct my life and my financial stewardship.

Is this a Hard Doctrine of Christ? It is said that the Lord only speaks hard things as they are interpreted by the wicked. If I consider offerings and service to those in need as hard or difficult, I guess that may be more of a reflection of me, than that of the doctrine itself.

"If, in the end, you have not chosen Jesus Christ, it will not matter what you have chosen." - Neal A. Maxwell

So, what does all of this have to do with healthcare and healing your body? I teach my patients (and personally believe) that all of the challenges we experience (physical as well as mental and emotional) are part of our spiritual journey. Christ suffered and atoned not only for our sins, but also for our illnesses, our broken bones, broken hearts, broken minds and broken spirits. As we truly come to Jesus, things can begin to change, heal and be renewed. As you get on this spiritual path - the one that requires serving and helping others (as you will be directed by that inner voice known as your conscience or the Light of Christ), things will begin to change for you. It requires true conversion, more than simply following a service-oriented checklist.

Blessings,

Dr. Kyle D. Christensen

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Tried & True herbal Remedies

  Tried and True Herbal Remedies
One of the great blessings of growing older is the experience you gain. Particularly if you have stuck to something for a long time. One of my greatest motivations has been failure. It really bugs me when something doesn't work. As a result, I search and learn and try again, and again and again. And over time, end up with things that are truly satisfying. So has it been with herbal remedies. Beginning with a remedy that works well and thenimproving upon it. I have been blessed with 30 years of working with wonderful people who have been willing to "try" what I give them. As they report back, remedies have been refined and improved. Are they perfect for every person? Not necessarily, but they are pretty darn good and wildly successful for relieving and healing most people.

As times continue to grow increasingly turbulent, many have found value in making and using their own herbal remedies. A year ago, I set a goal to have 500 gallons of herbal remedies through out the valley. Many of you have risen with this goal and now have your own herbal remedies at home. I am happy to say this goal has been exceeded. You have found that by making your own remedies by the half gallon, your cost is about 10% of what you would pay for the same (often inferior) product at the health food store.

We are offering again our Remedy Workshops. Come to my home, roll up your sleeves, turn on the blender and make for yourself Fast, Effective and potent herbal remedies. Your cost is just that of the materials and supplies. In the process, you will learn how to make these remedies on your own. You will be blessed with the assurance that you can assist those in your care for by helping issues and problems before they get out of hand. Workshop includes the herbs, jars, strainers, oils and tincturing materials - everything you need for each remedy. (Please bring a BlendTech or Vita-Mix blender if you have one).
We get you started - however, most remedies you will finish at home. (for example, with our tinctures - you need to shake them daily for 2 weeks before they are ready to strain and finish).

YOU MUST RSVP so will know we have adequate supplies. Let us know which day you will come, and which remedies you will be making.   kylesinthegarden@gmail.com or 1-801-360-0749
Space is limited and these workshops ALWAYS fill up, so if this is something you feel prompted to do, don't get left behind. Workshops held at 125 West Oak Drive, Woodland Hills, Utah. Most people can make 3 or 4 remedies during a workshop.

Listed below are the remedies you have the option to make.  Prioritize and choose what you should get started on.


Workshop #1
Herbal Cough Syrup
This is a combination of several cough formulas that we have meshed together into one. Especially for those chronic persistent coughs. This formula has gone through over 20 years of refining.
Cost: $75 for ½ gallon
 
Fallout Formula

This formula was designed for the treatment of exposure to toxins, poisons and radiation exposure. This will not prevent radiation, toxins or poisons from entering your body, but may assist in the elimination of toxins or the harmful effects of a variety of undesirable exposures. See Dr. Christensen's Article on Fallout Preparations - A More Natural Approach for further information.
Cost: $90 for ½ gallon

Super Immune Syrup
This is an Echinacea-based formula that is a powerful immune stimulant that tastes wonderful. Unlike, the Anti-Plague Formula, children (and adults) love this syrup (it has the taste of cinnamon and maple syrup).
Cost: $95 for ½ gallon

Lung Formula
This is natures asthma inhaler. It opens the bronchial passages as well as heals and promotes easier breathing.
Cost: $75 for ½ gallon

Brain Circulation - Memory Formula
A great aid for mental fogginess, poor memory, stroke recovery or for an afternoon mental pick-me-up. The herbs in this formula promote more blood and oxygen circulation to the brain. The primary herb in this formula, Ginko, is prescribed by more doctors in Germany and France than any pharmaceutical drug
Cost: $70 for ½ gallon

Intestinal Detox
This formula is used to cleanse, purify and detoxify the colon, bowels and intestines. Intestinal Detox soothes and strengthens the entire intestinal tract. Intestinal Detox is a strong purifier and intestinal vacuum, helping to draw out old fecal matter from the walls of the colon and from any bowel pockets. Intestinal Detox is uniquely formulated to soften old fecal matter for easy elimination. It aids in the removal of poisons, toxins, parasites and heavy metals. It is also used as a remedy for intestinal inflammation such as diverticulitis, colitis or irritable bowel syndrome. This product is also used effectively for diarrhea or food poisoning. Intestinal Detox can be used in powder or capsule form
Cost: $40 per quart

Intestinal Cleanse
Dr. Christopher's classic herbal laxative. We have found it best to purchase Dr. Christopher Fen LB powder and encapsulate it yourself with an efficient capsule machine and empty capsules. It is nice to have a capsule machine and empties on hand for other projects as well. Includes capsule machine, gelatin capsules and Fen LB powder.
Cost: $80

Nerve Calm Formula
This form is both a sedative and anti-spasmodic designed to relax, sedate and relieve tension and muscle spasm. For insomnia and anxiety. Can be used with children.
Cost: $90 for ½ gallon

Nerve Repair Formula
This formula helps to wake up the nervous system. It stimulates the nerves to work better and also stimulates the healing and repair of damaged nerve tissues. Recommended for anxiety, panic attacks, nervous tension and degenerative nervous system conditions. Also excellent for nerve pain such as sciatica or "pinched nerve."
Cost: $70 for ½ gallon

Pain Relief Formula
Non-narcotic pain relief, particularly suited for chronic pain. Relaxes and calms nervous irritation. Understand that the best natural herb for pain is opium - which is not a natural option. While this remedy does not have the pain relieving power of opium, it has helped many who suffer.
Cost: $95 for ½ gallon

Workshop #2
Anti-Plague Formula
Based on Dr. Christopher's original formula (before it was changed). Use for a general immune stimulant and builder. Also cleanses, detoxifies and is anti-parasitic. In our Remedies Class we make the 1.5 gallon recipe.
Cost: $165 for 1.5 gallon recipe.

Essiac Tea
This is the classic formula that has been used successfully for those treating a myraid of health conditions. Powerful enough for it's classic use of treating cancers, but gentle enough that it is our number one remedy for teenage acne. A great liver builder and detoxifier.
Cost: $60 - enough to make 10 gallons of tea. Standard dose is ¼ cup of tea per day.

Healing Ointment
This powerful healing ointment is based on Dr. john Christopher's classic Bone, Flesh & Cartilage formula. We spike this formula with extra comfrey to enhance the healing effects. This is an olive oil based remedy thickened with beeswax.
Cost: $85 for ½ gallon

Healing Syrup
Our Healing Ointment in a liquid internal use version. Use to heal damaged tissues from fracture, injuries and a multitude of other problems.
Cost: $90 for ½ gallon

Fire & Ice Ointment 
Rub directly into the muscle or joints that suffer from pain or injury. Use for Sprains, Strains, Arthritis, Bursitis, Tendonitis, and general aches. Thicken with beeswax for an ointment or leave as an oil. This is a very potent and powerful formula.
Cost: $115 for just under 3 quarts

Kidney Bladder Formula
Disinfects the urinary tract, reduces edema (swelling). Use for urinary tract infections, or other kidney/urinary disorders.
Cost: $70 for ½ gallon

Kidney Bladder Tea
Disinfects the urinary tract, reduces edema (swelling). Use for urinary tract infections, or other kidney/urinary disorders. This tasty tea can be enjoyed on a daily or weekly basis to maintain good urinary tract health.
Cost: $60 for 2 quarts of dry tea

Liver Detox Tea
Acts to detoxify the liver, stimulate the digestive system and cleanse the blood, skin, liver and gallbladder. As the liver function improves energy will increase. An excellent replacement for coffee.
Cost: $70 for 2 quarts of dry tea

Liver/Gallbladder Formula
These herbs are best known for their ability to stimulate, cleanse and protect the liver and gallbladder as well as rid the body of parasites. Use for any liver concern. Also boosts energy.
Cost: $80 for ½ gallon

Stone Dissolve Tea
The success of this herbal routine has been documented with pre and post x-rays and has helped many avoid surgery. For kidney stones, gravel, and gallstones. Make into a tea with apple cider. Comes with instructions. If kidney stones are in your world - you must have this on hand.
Cost: $40 per quart.

Workshop #3
Garden Tonic

This universal remedy is a must for your next cold, flu or sniffle.  You will be absolutely amazed at how powerful this formula is in attacking that actual problem and not just covering up your symptoms.  Take it straight, in juice or V8, put a squirt in your next soup or salad, there are so many ways you can use it. Contains: Fresh Garlic, horseradish, onion, ginger and cayenne in a base of Raw Apple Cider Vinegar.
Cost: $40 - This formula will not be available until fresh horseradish is in season.


Herbal Snuff
For sinus congestion, sinusitis or any chronic sinus problem. Saved many from sinus surgery.   Like the name implies, you literally snuff or snort these powdered herbs up your nose.  Kind of intense, but it really works!
Cost: $35

Hawthorn Berry Syrup
This tasty natural syrup is claimed to be a curative remedy for organic and functional heart disorders such as rapid and feeble heart action, hypertrophy, valvular insufficiency sufficiency, and heart oppression. It also happens to taste really good.
Cost: $70
 
Super C Formula
The ultimate herbal Vitamin C concoction, with added ascorbic acid for an extra kick. Use for a potent source of herbs high in the vitamin C complex.
Cost: $90 

Weight Loss Formula
Along with proper exercise and diet, this is a great formula to increase your energy and help shed those extra pounds.
Cost: $90
Female Tonic

This hormone balancing in women relieves PMS and menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, bloating, anxiety, depression, vaginal dryness, uterine fibroids, abnormal pap smears, abnormal or painful menstrual periods.
Cost: $80
 
Male Tonic
This tonic is to assist in healthy prostate function, testosterone balance and overall health.
Cost: $70
 
Sleep Remedy
This non-addictive, gentle sleep syrup will help both body and mind to relax allowing you to drift off to sleep.  Helps with insomnia and other sleep disorders. You will not wake up groggy or feeling drugged with this all natural remedy.
Cost: $70
  
Herbal Tooth Paste
Use for gingivitis, pyorrhea, or any other tooth or gum problem or simply for normal tooth brushing. 
Cost: $25
 
Anti-Parasite Formula
This formula is safe and very effective.  Parasites are far more common than we would like to think. Use for 3 to 4 weeks to destroy and eliminate harmful intestinal parasites.
Cost: $75