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David Archuleta still just a kid from Murray
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uhhh | 10:14 a.m. June 4, 2009
So how exactly is he influencing the "world" to bring them closer to
God and christianity? Oh by singing? Um, okay!
Can someone show me once where he even mentions anything about his standards, his faith, or his testimony about anything religious? I haven't ever seen anything, and comments on fan message boards asking "whether or not he is Christian because I love him" makes me think I'm not alone.
Bottom line is he's using it as a cop-out to follow a career instead of pursue a mission, that's his choice, but to throw out all this bologney about him having a "higher purpose" to serve is nonsense.
Yeah he sure is influencing more people than most missionaries, but don't kid yourself in thinking it is in the same way. Good luck on your career David-
Can someone show me once where he even mentions anything about his standards, his faith, or his testimony about anything religious? I haven't ever seen anything, and comments on fan message boards asking "whether or not he is Christian because I love him" makes me think I'm not alone.
Bottom line is he's using it as a cop-out to follow a career instead of pursue a mission, that's his choice, but to throw out all this bologney about him having a "higher purpose" to serve is nonsense.
Yeah he sure is influencing more people than most missionaries, but don't kid yourself in thinking it is in the same way. Good luck on your career David-
JUST GO!!! | 10:17 a.m. June 4, 2009
Pay your tithing David. I'm pretty sure there are plenty of missions in the
world where he can go and not a single person has even heard of him. THE WORLD
IS BIGGER THAN MOST OF YOU THINK!!!!
I know its hard to leave it all but if you go I promise that you will never regret it! If you don't go you will always wonder.....
I know its hard to leave it all but if you go I promise that you will never regret it! If you don't go you will always wonder.....
Comments continue below
Rose | 10:33 a.m. June 4, 2009
"but singing professionally is no excuse or exemption for the terms the
Lord has set for All able 19 year-old men."
It wasn't the Lord who set those specific terms. It was your interpretation of what you think your church says. Quite a difference.
It wasn't the Lord who set those specific terms. It was your interpretation of what you think your church says. Quite a difference.
@ dismayed at 9:24 AM | 10:36 a.m. June 4, 2009
I was just thinking the same thing. I am embarrassed that some of David's
fans from all over the world are coming here and reading some of the judgemental
tripe being dished out (these people are actually revealing a lot about
themselves and it ain't pretty). I hope that they know most of us LDS
people are not like that and actually may be a little more like David.
He's a great example for all of us whether or not we're LDS. He is a
thoroughly good human being (and an extremely talented one). I love his voice
and admire his character tremendously, as do millions worldwide.
There are many types of missions and it is my belief that not only is David serving one, he is serving it well and will return with honor. Who's to say he and his future wife won't serve another mission some day as a senior couple?
As for his schooling, fans know what a high value David places on education. He will get his GED when he can. He has worked very hard and sacrificed much to get where he is.
There are many types of missions and it is my belief that not only is David serving one, he is serving it well and will return with honor. Who's to say he and his future wife won't serve another mission some day as a senior couple?
As for his schooling, fans know what a high value David places on education. He will get his GED when he can. He has worked very hard and sacrificed much to get where he is.
Marlie | 11:16 a.m. June 4, 2009
I still can't get an answer about whether a mission is for the personal
growth of the person serving the mission, or to bring people to God. If it is
the former, it sounds pretty self-serving to me. If it is the latter, then David
is in a better position to do that where he is.
As for him pursuing his "hobby", who do you think gave David the gift of music? Is he supposed to hide that light under a basket? David allows people to raise money for worthy causes through giving freely of his gift.
I'm surprised that many non LDS know much more about David and how he lives, talks and behaves than the LDS do. We know he carries his scriptures with him in that backpack - he showed us in a magazine interview. We know he reads and studies them daily - he told us in an interview. We know he goes to firesides - we've seen photos and seen his schedule, we know he visits hospitals and does charity work more than any other 18 year old I've seen. Maybe you should get to know him before you judge him.
As for him pursuing his "hobby", who do you think gave David the gift of music? Is he supposed to hide that light under a basket? David allows people to raise money for worthy causes through giving freely of his gift.
I'm surprised that many non LDS know much more about David and how he lives, talks and behaves than the LDS do. We know he carries his scriptures with him in that backpack - he showed us in a magazine interview. We know he reads and studies them daily - he told us in an interview. We know he goes to firesides - we've seen photos and seen his schedule, we know he visits hospitals and does charity work more than any other 18 year old I've seen. Maybe you should get to know him before you judge him.
For his own sake | 11:32 a.m. June 4, 2009
For his own sake and not the Church's, I too hope David will serve a
mission. I'm sure there's some obscure corner of the world where they
don't care about his singing. Nothing he can do with his music can compare
what the sacrifice and growth a mission can offer a young man. But I kinda
think his parents made this decision for him when they put him on the Idol
track.
Agreed with the comments that Idol contestants should be required to have a high school diploma before they can compete. MIssing that will be a definite handicap in life, and he clearly does not find it easy to be a student. Mr. and Mrs. Archuleta, are you on this?
Agreed with the comments that Idol contestants should be required to have a high school diploma before they can compete. MIssing that will be a definite handicap in life, and he clearly does not find it easy to be a student. Mr. and Mrs. Archuleta, are you on this?
bj | 11:33 a.m. June 4, 2009
Those LDS posters who are voicing their self absorbed criticism of David
Archuleta reinforce the general perception that LDS members are narrow-minded,
judgmental, zealots. David's ability to demonstrate his faith and
spirituality in a kind and subtle manner serves the Church in more ways than you
narrow minded people will ever understand.
For his own sake, PS | 11:34 a.m. June 4, 2009
Oh yes, I also think David is a wonderful young man, a great human being with a
humble, tender heart. That is exactly why he needs to get out and do something
difficult (like a mission) (or even a high school diploma) that doesn't
involve his native talent. Because he is so sweet. And vulnerable. Think
about it, young David.
Jim Cue | 11:51 a.m. June 4, 2009
David,
by all means, complete High School. Get a GED and don't worry. Schoolingis to prepare one to "make it" in the real world. Buddy, with your talent, you are already much further along that road than many a PHD I know.
Now, Concerning serving a mission... Don't sweat it! As things are right now, you are touching the lives of more people than you know. The world needs people to look up to, to try to emulate; people who give a positive image. I tell you true, you 'll never know how many people will be swayed toward the good, BY YOUR EXAMPLE!
Fame and Fortune can be a very transitory thing, so take it while you can. Later, you can serve as a Temple Worker, or as part of an elderly missionary couple. Were you my own grandson, I would have to tell you to keep on doing what you're doing now. Keep on being a good example.
The Lord has given you a great talent, don't waste it!
by all means, complete High School. Get a GED and don't worry. Schoolingis to prepare one to "make it" in the real world. Buddy, with your talent, you are already much further along that road than many a PHD I know.
Now, Concerning serving a mission... Don't sweat it! As things are right now, you are touching the lives of more people than you know. The world needs people to look up to, to try to emulate; people who give a positive image. I tell you true, you 'll never know how many people will be swayed toward the good, BY YOUR EXAMPLE!
Fame and Fortune can be a very transitory thing, so take it while you can. Later, you can serve as a Temple Worker, or as part of an elderly missionary couple. Were you my own grandson, I would have to tell you to keep on doing what you're doing now. Keep on being a good example.
The Lord has given you a great talent, don't waste it!
Bill to Marlie | 12:01 p.m. June 4, 2009
As I stated above it is actually both. A mission helps a young man to grow not
only personally but spiritually. The mission of the Church is to bring all to
Christ so that is the full time calling of a missionary to bring all to
Christ.
It isn't self serving to grow personally or spiritually when you are in the service of God. Every calling in the Church has the ability to do that for each of us. Whether he goes on a mission or not really is no ones concern in this blog. If he goes then he wanted it that way, if not he just wasn't prepared to go. Remember it says SHOULD not SHALL. What he is doing now with his music, his example, his humility is just as great in the site of God as if he was on an actual Church Mission. I never served a mission as I went into the military directly out of High School. Do I regret it? Sometimes yes, sometimes no. What I do regret is not always living up to the principles I've been taught. Quit judging and let the young man live.
It isn't self serving to grow personally or spiritually when you are in the service of God. Every calling in the Church has the ability to do that for each of us. Whether he goes on a mission or not really is no ones concern in this blog. If he goes then he wanted it that way, if not he just wasn't prepared to go. Remember it says SHOULD not SHALL. What he is doing now with his music, his example, his humility is just as great in the site of God as if he was on an actual Church Mission. I never served a mission as I went into the military directly out of High School. Do I regret it? Sometimes yes, sometimes no. What I do regret is not always living up to the principles I've been taught. Quit judging and let the young man live.
@ Marlie | 12:05 p.m. June 4, 2009
I will try to answer your question. The purpose of a proselyting mission is
first and foremost to spread the gospel to all people in the hope of bringing
them to God. Most young men and anyone else who serve missions incidentally
experience great personal and spiritual growth and have amazing life experiences
as a result of lovingly serving others in this capacity. Contrary to what some
have posted here, serving a mission is strictly voluntary and requires great
sacrifice (which usually brings great joy) on the part of the missionary and his
family. In my opinion, David is serving a unique mission and doing it very
well.
The decision to serve must be the missionary's, although most seek wise counsel from their local church leaders and family. However, this matter is ultimately between David and his Heavenly Father and no one else. I hope that answers your question.
If you're who I think you are, I'm a big-time lurker at TDC and enjoy reading the lively discussions that take place there. Perhaps I will post one day.
Thanks for your faith in David!
The decision to serve must be the missionary's, although most seek wise counsel from their local church leaders and family. However, this matter is ultimately between David and his Heavenly Father and no one else. I hope that answers your question.
If you're who I think you are, I'm a big-time lurker at TDC and enjoy reading the lively discussions that take place there. Perhaps I will post one day.
Thanks for your faith in David!
If you read this, David... | 12:29 p.m. June 4, 2009
...please know that you are a wonderful example of a Mormon boy. Thank you for
trusting in God and Jesus Christ, and for eminating your spirit--for sharing it
with the world!
You are right, you are on a mission already. We are each sent here and given different abilities. Your ability supercedes the average Joe's missionary ability to spread the Word. The people you can touch--have touched--are innumerable. You are AMAZING.
Thank you! You make so many of us proud to be LDS when we watch your example of what each of us SHOULD be.
You are right, you are on a mission already. We are each sent here and given different abilities. Your ability supercedes the average Joe's missionary ability to spread the Word. The people you can touch--have touched--are innumerable. You are AMAZING.
Thank you! You make so many of us proud to be LDS when we watch your example of what each of us SHOULD be.
lisamarie | 12:30 p.m. June 4, 2009
who are you people to say what david should do? he had vocal paralysis, and he
wasn't SUPPOSED to be able to sing. God obviously wants him to sing,
because it really is a miracle he can. and whatever he does is between him and
God. i believe that he's living his mission through singing, and i honestly
think that these rude comments are out of pure jealousy. kayyybye.
Michelle | 12:51 p.m. June 4, 2009
It is David's choice if he wants to go on an LDS mission or not. He seems
like he has a great head on his shoulders. He needs to do what he feels is
right. I support his decision, whatever it is!!! Good luck Archie!!!
GK | 1:09 p.m. June 4, 2009
I'm horrified and embarrassed. I guess if we want the world to be a better
place, all we need to do is listen to most of the "christians" on this
thread.
Anonymous | 1:27 p.m. June 4, 2009
American Idol was over a long time ago. He hasn't got time to go back to
school and finish?
Archie Fan | 1:39 p.m. June 4, 2009
Would that you drum-beaters would focus all of that energy on some of the young
men in your own wards that would REALLY benefit from the mission experience.
Some of the most diligent members of my EQ did not serve missions. I did, and I'm grateful for that every day. Steve Young didn't, but I don't think less of him for it. He's been a fantastic ambassador for the Church, just as Archie is.
The goal is to touch lives and cause people to ask questions, right?
Some of the most diligent members of my EQ did not serve missions. I did, and I'm grateful for that every day. Steve Young didn't, but I don't think less of him for it. He's been a fantastic ambassador for the Church, just as Archie is.
The goal is to touch lives and cause people to ask questions, right?
The actual quote is... | 1:39 p.m. June 4, 2009
So many of you keep spouting off the quote of President Kimball's that
"every worthy young man SHOULD serve a mission," but you don't
give it in the full context of the talk he gave.
"The scriptures are replete with commands and promises and calls and rewards for teaching the gospel. I use the word command deliberately for it seems to be an insistent directive from which we, singly and collectively, cannot escape. [He then goes on to list many of those scriptural commands.] The question is frequently asked: Should every young man fill a mission? And the answer has been given by the Lord. It is Yes. Every young man should fill a mission. He did not limit it. ... Yes, we would say, every able worthy man should shoulder the cross. ... Then, and not until then, shall we approach the insistence of our Lord and Master to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature."
-'When Will The World Be Converted?', Ensign, Oct. 1974
It's a commandment. President Kimball stressed that quite clearly and repeatedly throughout the entire talk. If you're going to quote it, quote it right.
"The scriptures are replete with commands and promises and calls and rewards for teaching the gospel. I use the word command deliberately for it seems to be an insistent directive from which we, singly and collectively, cannot escape. [He then goes on to list many of those scriptural commands.] The question is frequently asked: Should every young man fill a mission? And the answer has been given by the Lord. It is Yes. Every young man should fill a mission. He did not limit it. ... Yes, we would say, every able worthy man should shoulder the cross. ... Then, and not until then, shall we approach the insistence of our Lord and Master to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature."
-'When Will The World Be Converted?', Ensign, Oct. 1974
It's a commandment. President Kimball stressed that quite clearly and repeatedly throughout the entire talk. If you're going to quote it, quote it right.
The actual quote is... cont'd | 1:42 p.m. June 4, 2009
Yes, David and other young men like him have the ability to choose whether or
not they will go on a mission. But unless he is specifically told not to go by
the church authorities, he is still under commandment to go. If he chooses not
to, that's his decision, but he will be breaking a commandment from God
unless he is specifically told that the Lord wants him elsewhere.
Epiphany | 1:43 p.m. June 4, 2009
It has finally dawned on me that although I'm sure there are some
holier-than-thou Mormons posting here, there are most likely some Mormon
haters/bashers pretending to be Mormons trying to stir the pot.
I am truly thankful that I do not personally know people like this and that the Mormons I do know, although far from perfect, are nothing like this.
David himself would turn the other cheek and say, "That's too bad," and not give it another thought. At age 18 and lacking a high school diploma, he is far more spiritually mature than many of us.
I'm pretty sure that God, David's local bishop, stake president and the LDS First Presidency are very pleased with the way David conducts his life. Some of the rest of us? Not so much.
Way to set a good example, David!
I am truly thankful that I do not personally know people like this and that the Mormons I do know, although far from perfect, are nothing like this.
David himself would turn the other cheek and say, "That's too bad," and not give it another thought. At age 18 and lacking a high school diploma, he is far more spiritually mature than many of us.
I'm pretty sure that God, David's local bishop, stake president and the LDS First Presidency are very pleased with the way David conducts his life. Some of the rest of us? Not so much.
Way to set a good example, David!
Anonymous | 1:50 p.m. June 4, 2009
I'm not Mormon, I'm Christian, however, I am a devoted fan of
David's. Because of him, I have been studying more about the Mormon faith.
I will not convert, but I now view Mormons differently than I did before. I
would be willing to have a discussion with Mormon missionaries if given the
opportunity and I even have some very lovely Mormon friends now. I'm one
of those who has been concerned about David's salvation, but its not
because of his lack of witness. Its because of my lack of understanding of the
Mormon faith. I am also one that has personally witnessed David showing forth
the fruits of the Spirit. He is a great witness for God because the Holy Spirit
shines through him and through his singing. They will know we are Christians by
our love. God is in his voice and musical talent. That is a very POWERFUL
thing!
to David | 2:02 p.m. June 4, 2009
If you'll put your address in their forum, I'll send you a comb.
Huh? | 2:07 p.m. June 4, 2009
When I heard MaDona was a Catholic, I almost joined, but then I heard that Clint
Eastwood was Protestant.
Now that I know you're Mormon, I'm feeling like thats what I want to be,
I'm sure there are lots of people like me out here that choose their church based on what church the stars go to.
Now that I know you're Mormon, I'm feeling like thats what I want to be,
I'm sure there are lots of people like me out here that choose their church based on what church the stars go to.
Another Mother | 2:13 p.m. June 4, 2009
David should do what his heart tells him. No man of this world should interfere.
It is clear that he is a precious gift from God to a worn and weary planet. Show
him support and encouragement for his choices what ever they are, for he would
never judge you. That job belongs to One alone. Gods work ranges well beyond the
confines of man's religion.
PapaCorn | 2:19 p.m. June 4, 2009
Why is it that if anyone pokes holes in an argument we are labeled as
NON-Christians (GK, scared stiff, BJ, dismayed, etc). I find it AMAZING that we
are heaping praise upon Archuleta for being a wonderful example, for being a
missionary, for being an amazing Latter Day Saint.
I have to side with "uhhh" on this one. What songs has he produced that mention God or Christ? What songs in his vast collection actually provide any semblance of missionary work?
Listen to Steve Young talk sometime about his decision to not serve a mission. Guess what folks. He has regretted his decision his entire life.
No, I'm not narrow-minded. No, I'm not judgemental. I'm actually castigating so many of you for being so enamored by David's missionary prowess without actually even mentioning the name of God or Christ. Fame and fortune trump all else with so many within the church.
I have to side with "uhhh" on this one. What songs has he produced that mention God or Christ? What songs in his vast collection actually provide any semblance of missionary work?
Listen to Steve Young talk sometime about his decision to not serve a mission. Guess what folks. He has regretted his decision his entire life.
No, I'm not narrow-minded. No, I'm not judgemental. I'm actually castigating so many of you for being so enamored by David's missionary prowess without actually even mentioning the name of God or Christ. Fame and fortune trump all else with so many within the church.
I'm just another fan | 3:00 p.m. June 4, 2009
Every comment here says more about the person commenting than it says about
David Archuleta.
To Papa Corn | 3:02 p.m. June 4, 2009
You obviously did not watch Idol last season. By my count I heard Jesus, the
Father, miracles and Angels plus the Spirit sung about on many occasions.
Doesn't matter anyway because you can be a missionary by example, something
that many of the posters to this article just forgot.
As a huge fan of David and an active LDS member, I have worked tirelessly since last season trying to undo the damage narrow minded and judgmental mormons have inflicted on the world at large. If you don't know anything about David, why in the world would you make a judgment about what God has or has not told him to do? Even Pres. Monson told him it was between him and God. Do you know something he (He)doesn't? David has already baptized more people than the majority of those who serve full time and making a judgment on a person's spiritual growth and relationship with the Savior is ridiculous.
The good thing is that David doesn't let any criticism bog him down. He knows what he is doing and that he is right with the Lord.
None
As a huge fan of David and an active LDS member, I have worked tirelessly since last season trying to undo the damage narrow minded and judgmental mormons have inflicted on the world at large. If you don't know anything about David, why in the world would you make a judgment about what God has or has not told him to do? Even Pres. Monson told him it was between him and God. Do you know something he (He)doesn't? David has already baptized more people than the majority of those who serve full time and making a judgment on a person's spiritual growth and relationship with the Savior is ridiculous.
The good thing is that David doesn't let any criticism bog him down. He knows what he is doing and that he is right with the Lord.
None
confused | 3:03 p.m. June 4, 2009
David doesn't need to sing about God or Christ for that same message to get
across. I'm not LDS and I am just a fan, but believe me, I have learned a
few things about love and acceptance from David. He leads by living the way he
does and being the kind of person he is. For me, that has been enough to open my
heart to something I knew little about before.... and it has brought me back to
my own faith.
Scundered | 3:07 p.m. June 4, 2009
Can people stop all the pontification about going on missions? Let the man get
on with his career; who cares if he makes "a great missionary"? There
are enough of you out there banging on about it to make up for those who
don't...
Sarah | 3:20 p.m. June 4, 2009
If David did a formal mission, I am sorry to say but his music career would be
over, probably. The music business is very unforgiving and a Mormon kid on a
mission is not making his label any money.
Anonymous | 3:24 p.m. June 4, 2009
In the American Idol competition, David Archuletta not only did not sing
religious songs, but when he chose his FAVORITE song, he chose
"Imagine" by John Lennon:
"Imagine there's no heaven. It's easy if you try. No hell below us. Above us only sky. Imagine all the people. Living for today."
This is an anti-religion song.
So why do people think David Archuletta is such a good example for Latter-day Saints?
What am I missing?
"Imagine there's no heaven. It's easy if you try. No hell below us. Above us only sky. Imagine all the people. Living for today."
This is an anti-religion song.
So why do people think David Archuletta is such a good example for Latter-day Saints?
What am I missing?
Not good | 3:27 p.m. June 4, 2009
Think of him walking around in the mission? it would be kaoss, and dangrouse.
people everywhere tryng to see him as he tries to preach. sometimes it might be
better for eveyone for him to wait or serve some other way.
Sarah | 3:30 p.m. June 4, 2009
Lennon sang about anti-religion because religion is often the reason for
violence and prejudice against people who don't hold their beliefs. This is
exactly why I hope David leaves the Mormon church altogether as he grows and
changes. It is still very hard for me as an avid David fan to look beyond his
membership in a church that supported and helped get Proposition 8 on the
ballot. David has a strong gay fan base.
Terry | 3:32 p.m. June 4, 2009
To The actual quote is...
I have always taken President Kimball's words to be a commandment for young men in the Church to serve full-time missions. That I why I served a mission.
I taught the Gospel as I understood it from the Scriptures.
Funny thing is, I have never seen anyone converted to the Church because of my preaching. In fact, I can count 5 people over the years who have LEFT the Church! I'm not saying it was my preaching, but it makes you wonder if preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ NECESSARILY brings people into the Church or sends them away from it!
I have always taken President Kimball's words to be a commandment for young men in the Church to serve full-time missions. That I why I served a mission.
I taught the Gospel as I understood it from the Scriptures.
Funny thing is, I have never seen anyone converted to the Church because of my preaching. In fact, I can count 5 people over the years who have LEFT the Church! I'm not saying it was my preaching, but it makes you wonder if preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ NECESSARILY brings people into the Church or sends them away from it!
Ray | 3:37 p.m. June 4, 2009
I'll tell you what! He did a mission on me! Just by reviving my faith on
young people again. I'm 54 and I was in a very dark place I had lost faith
in today's young people. He came along and i saw the kind of good decent
teens he was attracting. I Mean they came out in hoards. and older fans too, he
brought Mothers and teens together And neither David and his fans wore grabing
their crotch, pants low, throwing gang signs,or demoralising women. So to you
David A. Please don't leave. This is your mission young man.Don't
listen to fanatical extremist.
Anonymous | 4:02 p.m. June 4, 2009
Ray,
How did David Archuletta singing John Lennon's atheistic song revive your faith?
You are a strange old man.
How did David Archuletta singing John Lennon's atheistic song revive your faith?
You are a strange old man.
Serving in your own way! | 4:14 p.m. June 4, 2009
The self-deemed LDS self-righteous who are judging and condemning David are the
same reason why I worship from home now and love it!
You people think you are bringing others unto Christ, when in reality you push people away.
Most people need a designed program that tells them exactly what to do and think [MTC/Mission]. Guess what? Other people do not! He is serving in his own way.
By your judgemental standards Warren Buffet and Oprah aren't "worthy saints." The truth is though they help millions of people with charitable donations, humanitarian aid. etc.
Why is it in life we have so many options to choose from [career, hobbies, where and how to live], but when it comes to the church it's one size fits all. Sorry not everyone wears the same size. We are all Gods unique, individual children on are own path!
You people think you are bringing others unto Christ, when in reality you push people away.
Most people need a designed program that tells them exactly what to do and think [MTC/Mission]. Guess what? Other people do not! He is serving in his own way.
By your judgemental standards Warren Buffet and Oprah aren't "worthy saints." The truth is though they help millions of people with charitable donations, humanitarian aid. etc.
Why is it in life we have so many options to choose from [career, hobbies, where and how to live], but when it comes to the church it's one size fits all. Sorry not everyone wears the same size. We are all Gods unique, individual children on are own path!
Monica | 4:15 p.m. June 4, 2009
I am not Mormon but I am a Christian as well as a fan of David's. He in not
only amazingly talented but is one of the most extraordinary young men I have
ever met. If you know anything at all about him and his nature, then you just
KNOW he loves God. And if he already feels he's serving his mission,
it's his decision. If you love and respect him, you should trust and
respect his judgement. None of us know what's in David's heart or
between him and God, that's as it should be, what I do know is that he
touches and inspires so many people on a daily basis and in many cases has even
changed lives, mine included. He is doing what he feels is right. God knows how
he's living his life and knows he's chosen to share the gift he
blessed him with, David doesn't take that gift for granted. I'm proud
of him for that and it's just my opinion but I think God is as well.
imagine | 4:26 p.m. June 4, 2009
for the love of everything good, you really think that is an anti-religion song?
You are a pure idiot.
Jon B. Holbrook | 4:58 p.m. June 4, 2009
I served an LDS mission from 1970 to 1972 in Florida. This wss the same time
that the Osmonds were a sensation. We received a lot of "Donny"
referrals. Love-struck female fans loved Donny but not the Mormon religion. I
hope that David Archuleta uses his God-given talents to bring many people into
the true sheepfold of Christ. I hope that he is a far more successful missionary
than Donny Osmaond.
SouthBug | 5:01 p.m. June 4, 2009
I am glad he is finishing high school. He did state 'he couldn't keep
up.' His pride isn't standing in the way of him finishing his
schooling; not many kids would have the guts to go back and finish. As to his
mission, if he decides to go, good for him. I am a returned missionary. I have
taught my children that being worthy to serve is as important as serving, as
well as going because you want to go and share your testimony, live the rules
and work hard. If he meets all that criteria, more power to him.
Well done.
Well done.
PapaCorn | 5:02 p.m. June 4, 2009
Imagine, first of all, you are wrong. The song Imagine is an atheistic song,
written by an atheist. If you read the lyrics or knew anything about John Lennon
you'd understand.
Serving in Your Own Way, because someone runs a charity doesn't make them a Christian or charitable person. Read about the widow's mite. I find it interesting that you say you don't attend church because people are judging...yet you turn around and judge me and others here. Hilarious.
Sarah, your argument is what I find wrong with this entire mentality. If he's making money or making his label money then he's doing what is right? Help me out here.
Serving in Your Own Way, because someone runs a charity doesn't make them a Christian or charitable person. Read about the widow's mite. I find it interesting that you say you don't attend church because people are judging...yet you turn around and judge me and others here. Hilarious.
Sarah, your argument is what I find wrong with this entire mentality. If he's making money or making his label money then he's doing what is right? Help me out here.
Lorraine | 5:09 p.m. June 4, 2009
I converted to the LDS church 30 years ago, thanks to the example set by the
Osmonds (who didn't serve formal missions because the First Presidency told
them they were already serving missions). No missionaries have ever visited the
area where I grew up because it is a small, obscure village, so the gospel had
to come to me through a different medium (and no internet back then either).
The Osmonds were responsible for the direct conversions of over 43,000 people in
the United Kingdom alone, add to that the people those converts helped convert,
the missions they served (I chose to serve a full-time mission), the temple
marriages and offspring ... I would never have found the gospel and my life
would not have been changed for the better had the Osmonds decided to serve
"formal" missions. I've spoken with David, I've felt the
spirit emanate from him; he also has the guidance of his patriarchal blessing to
help him in his decisions. He will make the right choice and I intend to
support him whatever that choice is. David rocks!!
Marlie | 5:11 p.m. June 4, 2009
Bill and @Marlie: Thank you for answering my question so eloquently. I
appreciate your thoughtful answers. I do understand the growth that many
experience while doing their missions and that it would be good for any young
man. I think David is experiencing as much of the world and dealing with it in
his typical David way (kindness, caring, and turning away from the negative and
the crass) through his work. Do drop by TDC and say hello!
And for the person who is upset that David sang "Imagine", you forgot he also sang Smokey Mountain Memories with a phrase "I'll keep leaning on my Jesus, he'll love and guide and lead us". You have a selectively negative memory and, therefore, lost your point. That very negativism is what turns people off to your perspective - my God says "judge not others, lest ye be judged"...what does yours say?
And for the person who is upset that David sang "Imagine", you forgot he also sang Smokey Mountain Memories with a phrase "I'll keep leaning on my Jesus, he'll love and guide and lead us". You have a selectively negative memory and, therefore, lost your point. That very negativism is what turns people off to your perspective - my God says "judge not others, lest ye be judged"...what does yours say?
Good grief! | 5:34 p.m. June 4, 2009
Some of your comments have me questioning your overall emotional and mental
stamina. I note a few:
"When it comes to missionary work, he is an agent unto himself."
"He is truly serving a mission and serving it well."
"I wish more local folks knew how much good David has already done (and is doing) in the world - not just the nation but the world. He is truly serving a mission and serving it well."
"This is his choice between him and God. Who are we to tell him what to do. He is already doing so much and spreading the gospel in a different way."
"Many have been interested in his religion because of his example. He is definitely on a mission."
"He will influence more for good performing his music than any 10 regular missionaries!!"
Where do you come up with such nonsense? This is a career--and a chance to be famous and make a lot of money.
I don't think Heaven's Hosts are flattered by some of your silly comments.
"When it comes to missionary work, he is an agent unto himself."
"He is truly serving a mission and serving it well."
"I wish more local folks knew how much good David has already done (and is doing) in the world - not just the nation but the world. He is truly serving a mission and serving it well."
"This is his choice between him and God. Who are we to tell him what to do. He is already doing so much and spreading the gospel in a different way."
"Many have been interested in his religion because of his example. He is definitely on a mission."
"He will influence more for good performing his music than any 10 regular missionaries!!"
Where do you come up with such nonsense? This is a career--and a chance to be famous and make a lot of money.
I don't think Heaven's Hosts are flattered by some of your silly comments.
Good Grief???? | 5:47 p.m. June 4, 2009
Wow I would love to have your incite as to how the Heavenly Hosts are feeling.
Good Grief???? (5:47 pm) | 6:25 p.m. June 4, 2009
You prove my point exactly. You've become fanatical to the point of passing
beyond reason.
Archuleta is an entertainer--his music is fine, but I don't feel the need to plaster his picture on my walls. You get histerical because I challenge your bizarre view regarding him.
God is not a respecter of persons. Read 1 Corinthians 12 to get a better understanding of how we're all tied together. It isn't about a handful of us reaching the pinnacles of fame and fortune and the rest of us worshiping the few. That's abnormal--yet some of the comments here reflect this twisted view.
And the scriptures are clear regarding the blessedness of those who publish peace (missionaries).
I'm glad for David and wish him well. And, honestly, it would be best for his career to not go on a mission.
Personally, I tend to admire those who sacrifice themselves in helping others--without any personal reward. No fanfare. No pedestal. No glory. No story in the Ensign. No Church News article about them receiving an award. The scriptures agree.
Archuleta is an entertainer--his music is fine, but I don't feel the need to plaster his picture on my walls. You get histerical because I challenge your bizarre view regarding him.
God is not a respecter of persons. Read 1 Corinthians 12 to get a better understanding of how we're all tied together. It isn't about a handful of us reaching the pinnacles of fame and fortune and the rest of us worshiping the few. That's abnormal--yet some of the comments here reflect this twisted view.
And the scriptures are clear regarding the blessedness of those who publish peace (missionaries).
I'm glad for David and wish him well. And, honestly, it would be best for his career to not go on a mission.
Personally, I tend to admire those who sacrifice themselves in helping others--without any personal reward. No fanfare. No pedestal. No glory. No story in the Ensign. No Church News article about them receiving an award. The scriptures agree.
K | 6:47 p.m. June 4, 2009
Can't he finish high school and then a serve a mission after age 19? What
do converts do?
Marlie | 6:52 p.m. June 4, 2009
Oh, Good Grief???? I guess that includes your church leaders? Do you respect
them less because there is an article about them? That is ridiculous. People
can do good works from wherever they are - being obscure is no guarantee of what
is in someone's heart. It seems a little jealousy is at hand.
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Utah local and American Idol sensation David Archuleta meets with the press at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy, Utah on Wednesday.
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