Journey to 1000 Gifts from Him. {Day 251} SINGING PRAISE

There are mornings when waking up out of REM sleep and ending on the sour note of a bad dream really threaten to discolor the sky of any day.

I wake and try to ponder for a few minutes, but nothing stirs me out of the gloom.  I get up and begin the day with proofreading my sweetheart's paper and brushing through my hair tangle.  The little boys are up so early and I wonder how I'm going to fight through this day...alone...because my sweetheart is going back to school.  I get ready for the day and afterwards let the boys watch a short movie while I spend my much-needed daily time with the Lord...feasting and thinking and feeling.  I plead with Him for answers (as I do on so many mornings), answers to solve my miniscule problems that loom larger than life.

As I read I'm reminded of the dreams I had just before waking...of being left alone time after time...and me struggling to care for my boys all by myself.  And I realize that this subconscious fear is what I've been harboring...knowing that my sweetheart would be returning to school, knowing that soon we will welcome another beautiful spirit into our home and I will be a lone mother again when we move.

But the words I read give me hope and call me to repentance.  The Lord did not leave the Jaredites alone when they crossed the great deep.  He gave them light, He provided them wind, He made is so no whale or sea creature could mar their ships, He brought them out of the depths when they were encompassed about with waves.  And for 344 days, they were driven forth...tossed upon the waves of the sea.  

But what did they do?  Did they bemoan their lot or ask "why" to their Lord?  No.  "...they did sing praises unto the Lord; yea, the brother of Jared did sing praises unto the Lord, and he did thank and praise the Lord all the day long; and when the night came, they did not cease to praise the Lord." (Ether 6:9)

And I felt that this story was for me.  Today.  And everyday as I strive to make the counting of the gifts become part of who I am.

So I sang.  Songs of testimony and commitment and love.  Songs that lifted me from the depths of the encompassing waves and set me aright again on top of the waters.

Songs of praise have this sort of power.  And I wonder why I haven't thought to make the consistent singing a part of my daily praise...

It is now.

"An occasional burst of praise, in the midst of years of complaining, is not what is required. Songs on rare, sunshiny days; and no songs when skies are cloudy—will not make a life of gratitude. The heart must learn to sing always."  ~J.R. Miller, 1912

{ image via pinterest}

908.  Quiet time to relish with my boys and sweetheart every morning this week.
909.  Knowing the Lord will give me gems in my scripture study this morning.
913.  Imagining what my Little Star will look like and envisioning her in my mind.
914.  A fun and memorable library trip.
917.  My sweetheart telling me that I'm the most beautiful woman in the all the world and that he loves me with all of his heart.
922.  Little one hiccups inside of me
925.  My personal "Thanksgiving Celebration" where I will reflect on all that I have learned this year.
931.  German buttery pancakes with homemade Raspberry jam.
933.  The boys always behaving so reverently during Sacrament meeting.
940.  Paper chains--red and orange to count down our time before we move to our Cottage and pastel pink for when Little Star will come.
941.  Actually feeling the singing of praise lifting and energizing my sagging spirit.
942.  Pop reminding me that the waiting and anticipation is just as exciting as the actual having.

Journey to 1000 Gifts from Him. {Day 251} SINGING PRAISE

There are mornings when waking up out of REM sleep and ending on the sour note of a bad dream really threaten to discolor the sky of any day.

I wake and try to ponder for a few minutes, but nothing stirs me out of the gloom.  I get up and begin the day with proofreading my sweetheart's paper and brushing through my hair tangle.  The little boys are up so early and I wonder how I'm going to fight through this day...alone...because my sweetheart is going back to school.  I get ready for the day and afterwards let the boys watch a short movie while I spend my much-needed daily time with the Lord...feasting and thinking and feeling.  I plead with Him for answers (as I do on so many mornings), answers to solve my miniscule problems that loom larger than life.

As I read I'm reminded of the dreams I had just before waking...of being left alone time after time...and me struggling to care for my boys all by myself.  And I realize that this subconscious fear is what I've been harboring...knowing that my sweetheart would be returning to school, knowing that soon we will welcome another beautiful spirit into our home and I will be a lone mother again when we move.

But the words I read give me hope and call me to repentance.  The Lord did not leave the Jaredites alone when they crossed the great deep.  He gave them light, He provided them wind, He made is so no whale or sea creature could mar their ships, He brought them out of the depths when they were encompassed about with waves.  And for 344 days, they were driven forth...tossed upon the waves of the sea.  

But what did they do?  Did they bemoan their lot or ask "why" to their Lord?  No.  "...they did sing praises unto the Lord; yea, the brother of Jared did sing praises unto the Lord, and he did thank and praise the Lord all the day long; and when the night came, they did not cease to praise the Lord." (Ether 6:9)

And I felt that this story was for me.  Today.  And everyday as I strive to make the counting of the gifts become part of who I am.

So I sang.  Songs of testimony and commitment and love.  Songs that lifted me from the depths of the encompassing waves and set me aright again on top of the waters.

Songs of praise have this sort of power.  And I wonder why I haven't thought to make the consistent singing a part of my daily praise...

It is now.

"An occasional burst of praise, in the midst of years of complaining, is not what is required. Songs on rare, sunshiny days; and no songs when skies are cloudy—will not make a life of gratitude. The heart must learn to sing always."  ~J.R. Miller, 1912

{ image via pinterest}

908.  Quiet time to relish with my boys and sweetheart every morning this week.
909.  Knowing the Lord will give me gems in my scripture study this morning.
913.  Imagining what my Little Star will look like and envisioning her in my mind.
914.  A fun and memorable library trip.
917.  My sweetheart telling me that I'm the most beautiful woman in the all the world and that he loves me with all of his heart.
922.  Little one hiccups inside of me
925.  My personal "Thanksgiving Celebration" where I will reflect on all that I have learned this year.
931.  German buttery pancakes with homemade Raspberry jam.
933.  The boys always behaving so reverently during Sacrament meeting.
940.  Paper chains--red and orange to count down our time before we move to our Cottage and pastel pink for when Little Star will come.
941.  Actually feeling the singing of praise lifting and energizing my sagging spirit.
942.  Pop reminding me that the waiting and anticipation is just as exciting as the actual having.

Journey to 1000 Gifts from Him. {Day 244}

#831. Little Bear making our bed out of the kindness of his heart.

#833. A dreary day.

#835. Sleeping in.

#846. A Thankful Box filling up.

#848. Being almost all ready for the hospital.

#849. Boys playing sweetly by themselves

#850. How they're growing up and I'm loving "where they are" right now.

#854. Feeling deep in my heart that the Lord's will really is best--whatever that may be.

#862. A nice, long rest while the boys made a big, beautiful mess of toys and play things.

#866. Christmas music bringing the magical feelings of the coming holiday season.

#877. A video about teaching gratitude to children through cataloging gratitude, gratitude letters, and 3 good things discussed at the end of each day.

#883. Little Bear's wild and crazy hair messed up from his hat.

#889. Turning my will over to the Lord.

#894. Little Bear hugging Little Bug, taking his cheeks in his hands and asking, "Do you love me?"

#900.  This holy, special family tiem on a Sunday evening.

#901. My sweetheart home with us all week.

#902. The boys playing lions as they wrestle helter skelter on the floor...and me letting the laughter roll the whole time...

Journey to 1000 Gifts from Him. {Day 244}

#831. Little Bear making our bed out of the kindness of his heart.

#833. A dreary day.

#835. Sleeping in.

#846. A Thankful Box filling up.

#848. Being almost all ready for the hospital.

#849. Boys playing sweetly by themselves

#850. How they're growing up and I'm loving "where they are" right now.

#854. Feeling deep in my heart that the Lord's will really is best--whatever that may be.

#862. A nice, long rest while the boys made a big, beautiful mess of toys and play things.

#866. Christmas music bringing the magical feelings of the coming holiday season.

#877. A video about teaching gratitude to children through cataloging gratitude, gratitude letters, and 3 good things discussed at the end of each day.

#883. Little Bear's wild and crazy hair messed up from his hat.

#889. Turning my will over to the Lord.

#894. Little Bear hugging Little Bug, taking his cheeks in his hands and asking, "Do you love me?"

#900.  This holy, special family tiem on a Sunday evening.

#901. My sweetheart home with us all week.

#902. The boys playing lions as they wrestle helter skelter on the floor...and me letting the laughter roll the whole time...

Thoughts.

I have long struggled with my thoughts.  It seems as if discouragement, negativity, and doubt enter in the holes in my heart so easily.  I have found that the adversary uses every means possible to tempt us and bring us down--and this is one of the ways he succeeds so often with me.

But today is a new day, a new dawn, a new beginning.  Each day can and must be so if we are to attain the perfection our Lord requires. (see 3 Nephi 12:48).  And today I have chosen to meditate upon a verse of scripture that will empower me to press on and rise above.  And perhaps when I do this, the Savior can heal my holes, patching them up with the perfect peace only He can bestow.

The word brings us closer to Christ.  And why limit the time we feast to the small hours of the morning when we study?  Shouldn't the word be a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path?  All day long?

They can be.  And these verses we ponder, and memorize, and cling to will become "stalwart friends" filed away in our memory to call upon when we are in need of comfort or guidance or strength.

So I write out a verse on a notecard...just a simple verse from Psalms, only eight words.  It's burning into my heart just a little more each time I recite it, building my faith, filling me with the Spirit.  And tomorrow there will be a new verse to memorize and recite and draw upon.  What grace the Lord has shown me today in prompting me to begin this small and simple practice.  He knew I needed empowerment.  He knew I needed Him.

"I will love thee, O Lord, my strength."

{Psalms 18:1}

Thoughts.

I have long struggled with my thoughts.  It seems as if discouragement, negativity, and doubt enter in the holes in my heart so easily.  I have found that the adversary uses every means possible to tempt us and bring us down--and this is one of the ways he succeeds so often with me.

But today is a new day, a new dawn, a new beginning.  Each day can and must be so if we are to attain the perfection our Lord requires. (see 3 Nephi 12:48).  And today I have chosen to meditate upon a verse of scripture that will empower me to press on and rise above.  And perhaps when I do this, the Savior can heal my holes, patching them up with the perfect peace only He can bestow.

The word brings us closer to Christ.  And why limit the time we feast to the small hours of the morning when we study?  Shouldn't the word be a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path?  All day long?

They can be.  And these verses we ponder, and memorize, and cling to will become "stalwart friends" filed away in our memory to call upon when we are in need of comfort or guidance or strength.

So I write out a verse on a notecard...just a simple verse from Psalms, only eight words.  It's burning into my heart just a little more each time I recite it, building my faith, filling me with the Spirit.  And tomorrow there will be a new verse to memorize and recite and draw upon.  What grace the Lord has shown me today in prompting me to begin this small and simple practice.  He knew I needed empowerment.  He knew I needed Him.

"I will love thee, O Lord, my strength."

{Psalms 18:1}

Faith to do His Will {A Key to a Lifetime of Happiness}

The pine needles gleam with an edge of sunlight.  They bend in the breeze and sway to an unheard melody.  This is what I see today as I sip hot chocolate and stand in awe of His handiwork.  They bend as if their whole existence were centered on following the will of Him who manages the cosmos.  And indeed,

"O how great is the nothingness of the children of men; yea, even they are less than the dust of the earth.  For behold, the dust of the earth moveth hither and thither, to the dividing asunder, at the command of our great and everlasting God.  Yea, behold at his voice do the hills and the mountains tremble and quake.  And by the power of his voice they are broken up, and become smooth, yea, even like unto a valley.  Yea, by the power of his voice doth the whole earth shake; Yea, by the power of his voice, do the foundations rock, even to the very center.  Yea, and if he say unto the earth--Move--it is moved." (Helaman 12:7-13)

 This subject has been on my mind for weeks now and I have been treading softly on new ground.  Not one day has been perfect, but there have been glimpses of a more Christlike heart and a few more heavenly moments.  Like yesterday.  And today.  I planned out my days with the Spirit guiding my heart to know what to pencil in and what to scratch out, leaving for later.  The friends I have visited, the purchases I've made, the way I've handled difficult behavior in my children has been pre-planned and guided by the Spirit...sometimes in the unexpected moment of it all.

And it is interesting to witness the change....in my days, in my demeanor, in my energy level, my health, vigor, and happiness.  Life is just lit with luster when we submit to His will and bend to the rhythm of His breeze.

This all has left me wondering how different my life would be if everyday, in every way, I tried to discern the promptings of the Holy Ghost.  How would my relationship with my children change? {Maybe flourish?}  How would my reactions be altered? {Perhaps all negativity would be eliminated?}  Would my time be better spent?  Would I be happier, more satisfied, content, and fulfilled?  Would this practice enable me to walk with Him daily?

I think I've stumbled upon another key to happiness; another key to making life holy; another key to a life of miraculous moments.

It lies in simply doing His will.

And every time I see pine needles, or leaves, or branches, or grass, or flower, I will think of this principle...and recommit.

Faith to do His Will {A Key to a Lifetime of Happiness}

The pine needles gleam with an edge of sunlight.  They bend in the breeze and sway to an unheard melody.  This is what I see today as I sip hot chocolate and stand in awe of His handiwork.  They bend as if their whole existence were centered on following the will of Him who manages the cosmos.  And indeed,

"O how great is the nothingness of the children of men; yea, even they are less than the dust of the earth.  For behold, the dust of the earth moveth hither and thither, to the dividing asunder, at the command of our great and everlasting God.  Yea, behold at his voice do the hills and the mountains tremble and quake.  And by the power of his voice they are broken up, and become smooth, yea, even like unto a valley.  Yea, by the power of his voice doth the whole earth shake; Yea, by the power of his voice, do the foundations rock, even to the very center.  Yea, and if he say unto the earth--Move--it is moved." (Helaman 12:7-13)

 This subject has been on my mind for weeks now and I have been treading softly on new ground.  Not one day has been perfect, but there have been glimpses of a more Christlike heart and a few more heavenly moments.  Like yesterday.  And today.  I planned out my days with the Spirit guiding my heart to know what to pencil in and what to scratch out, leaving for later.  The friends I have visited, the purchases I've made, the way I've handled difficult behavior in my children has been pre-planned and guided by the Spirit...sometimes in the unexpected moment of it all.

And it is interesting to witness the change....in my days, in my demeanor, in my energy level, my health, vigor, and happiness.  Life is just lit with luster when we submit to His will and bend to the rhythm of His breeze.

This all has left me wondering how different my life would be if everyday, in every way, I tried to discern the promptings of the Holy Ghost.  How would my relationship with my children change? {Maybe flourish?}  How would my reactions be altered? {Perhaps all negativity would be eliminated?}  Would my time be better spent?  Would I be happier, more satisfied, content, and fulfilled?  Would this practice enable me to walk with Him daily?

I think I've stumbled upon another key to happiness; another key to making life holy; another key to a life of miraculous moments.

It lies in simply doing His will.

And every time I see pine needles, or leaves, or branches, or grass, or flower, I will think of this principle...and recommit.

Filled with Light.

"The light of the body is the eye; if, therefore, thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light."

{3 Nephi 13:22}

"And if your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be full of light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things."

{D&C 88:67}

How often I have read these words, like poetry, straight from the Lord's own mouth.

Knowing that the light of the body is the eye, I have become a vigilant observer of eyes.  After years of watching and feeling, it is usually easy to discern the state of one's heart from the light that shines forth from one's eyes.  In fact, the light of the eye reflects in the whole of the countenance.

But what of the eye being single to the glory of God?

How often I have pondered this deeper meaning.

Today light poured into my understanding, and I understood perhaps a layer of meaning to this phrase.

How do we glory God?  We live our lives in righteousness, always the best we can; we arise and shine forth an example of light; and then we bring Him praise for everything we receive...even the hardships.

This is, I believe, the summation of glorying God.

And if this, this glory-giving, glory-living life is what we focus on singly, or solely, it shows.  It manifests as a shining of light in our eyes.

I go to the mirror and examine my eyes.  There's the blue and the white and the black of the pupil, but I ignore all of these and look deeper.  Is the light there?  And my mind rolls back in time to nearly 7 years ago when I sat in a BYU-Idaho devotional in a little chapel on a cushioned bench.  I do not remember the name of the lady addressing, but I'll never forget what she taught.  She spoke of eyes and light and countenances reflecting the light of the Savior.  And she issued a challenge.   To rise up each morning, go to a mirror, and look for the light.  We were then encouraged to act that day in a way that the light in our eyes would be increased.

Here at my mirror, seven years later, and I still search for the light as often as I remember.  Maybe this coming year it will become a solidified routine.  

To check for the light.  

To examine the eyes.  

To live a life of glory to God...

And the list continues...
ever onward to 1000...

#752 Little inventive boys
#753 Old matchbox cars coursing through brown wrapping paper tubes.
#755 Sweet Pea's countdown inspired by the Spirit.
#757 Prayers and faith pulling Mother through her surgery and post-surgery with no epidural or pain medication.
#764 A sweet tender birthday hug from Pop
#771 Impromptu sweetness last night before drifting into slumber.
#772 This heart-building counting of the graces, while waiting for my own little "Grace" girl.
#773 Little Bug's pure, innocent, unrestrained laughter.
#775 Approaching the 1000 mark and wondering what lies beyond...

Filled with Light.

"The light of the body is the eye; if, therefore, thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light."

{3 Nephi 13:22}

"And if your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be full of light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things."

{D&C 88:67}

How often I have read these words, like poetry, straight from the Lord's own mouth.

Knowing that the light of the body is the eye, I have become a vigilant observer of eyes.  After years of watching and feeling, it is usually easy to discern the state of one's heart from the light that shines forth from one's eyes.  In fact, the light of the eye reflects in the whole of the countenance.

But what of the eye being single to the glory of God?

How often I have pondered this deeper meaning.

Today light poured into my understanding, and I understood perhaps a layer of meaning to this phrase.

How do we glory God?  We live our lives in righteousness, always the best we can; we arise and shine forth an example of light; and then we bring Him praise for everything we receive...even the hardships.

This is, I believe, the summation of glorying God.

And if this, this glory-giving, glory-living life is what we focus on singly, or solely, it shows.  It manifests as a shining of light in our eyes.

I go to the mirror and examine my eyes.  There's the blue and the white and the black of the pupil, but I ignore all of these and look deeper.  Is the light there?  And my mind rolls back in time to nearly 7 years ago when I sat in a BYU-Idaho devotional in a little chapel on a cushioned bench.  I do not remember the name of the lady addressing, but I'll never forget what she taught.  She spoke of eyes and light and countenances reflecting the light of the Savior.  And she issued a challenge.   To rise up each morning, go to a mirror, and look for the light.  We were then encouraged to act that day in a way that the light in our eyes would be increased.

Here at my mirror, seven years later, and I still search for the light as often as I remember.  Maybe this coming year it will become a solidified routine.  

To check for the light.  

To examine the eyes.  

To live a life of glory to God...

And the list continues...
ever onward to 1000...

#752 Little inventive boys
#753 Old matchbox cars coursing through brown wrapping paper tubes.
#755 Sweet Pea's countdown inspired by the Spirit.
#757 Prayers and faith pulling Mother through her surgery and post-surgery with no epidural or pain medication.
#764 A sweet tender birthday hug from Pop
#771 Impromptu sweetness last night before drifting into slumber.
#772 This heart-building counting of the graces, while waiting for my own little "Grace" girl.
#773 Little Bug's pure, innocent, unrestrained laughter.
#775 Approaching the 1000 mark and wondering what lies beyond...

Thoughtful Thursday...Wonder.

We hear that peace stems from thanksgiving.
We experience happiness in the habit of thanksliving.

But pure wonder is born from the art of pausing to notice God's grace.

Pause, and see God's graceful, {grace full} masterpiece in this awe-inspiring clip.
(Pause the music player at the bottom of the page)

Murmuration from Sophie Windsor Clive on Vimeo.

Thoughtful Thursday...Wonder.

We hear that peace stems from thanksgiving.
We experience happiness in the habit of thanksliving.

But pure wonder is born from the art of pausing to notice God's grace.

Pause, and see God's graceful, {grace full} masterpiece in this awe-inspiring clip.
(Pause the music player at the bottom of the page)

Murmuration from Sophie Windsor Clive on Vimeo.

Remember.

 Join me for 5 minute Friday?

Unscripted, unedited, really un-thought about until the moment the words start pouring from my fingertips and translating to words on the keyboard.

I begin.

Remember...

You've always been there...for as long as I can remember.  You who went through hours of painful, unmedicated labor just. for. me.  You who brought me into this beautiful world and showed me all about what beautiful means.  You were there with me in every first, every second of every day until I went to kindergarten.  And you cried as I left, knowing you would not be a part of my every second ever again.  But still we remained close, our hearts always sharing thoughts and feelings, and your heart always teaching mine about faith and the Savior.  I remember playing house with you and wanting with my all to grow up and be a mommy just like you.  And when I think of remembering, I think instantly of you because it was you who first taught me the significance of the word "remember."  You taught me about the Book of Mormon exhortations to "remember" and you taught me how to live this practice every day of my life.

I think of you today because you are right now at this very minute undergoing an intensive lung surgery and I am not with you.  I am in another state and I feel so far away.  I want to be there with you--just as you were with me when they took out my tonsils, when I had every shot, when I had my first baby.  You have always been there and now I can't be there for you.

But my heart has never left you--even when I "grew up" and got married and moved away.  I am still your little girl and you will always be my dear, sweet mother who has molded me into who I am today.

Dear Mother, my heart is with you.  My prayers and thoughts are directed towards you.  I know, with that faith you have instilled in me, that everything will work out because everything is in His hands.  And soon, oh I hope so soon, I will come to your side and brush my cheek against yours and tell you just how much I love you...and how I always have.

And when I think of "remember," I'll always think of you.

Remember.

 Join me for 5 minute Friday?

Unscripted, unedited, really un-thought about until the moment the words start pouring from my fingertips and translating to words on the keyboard.

I begin.

Remember...

You've always been there...for as long as I can remember.  You who went through hours of painful, unmedicated labor just. for. me.  You who brought me into this beautiful world and showed me all about what beautiful means.  You were there with me in every first, every second of every day until I went to kindergarten.  And you cried as I left, knowing you would not be a part of my every second ever again.  But still we remained close, our hearts always sharing thoughts and feelings, and your heart always teaching mine about faith and the Savior.  I remember playing house with you and wanting with my all to grow up and be a mommy just like you.  And when I think of remembering, I think instantly of you because it was you who first taught me the significance of the word "remember."  You taught me about the Book of Mormon exhortations to "remember" and you taught me how to live this practice every day of my life.

I think of you today because you are right now at this very minute undergoing an intensive lung surgery and I am not with you.  I am in another state and I feel so far away.  I want to be there with you--just as you were with me when they took out my tonsils, when I had every shot, when I had my first baby.  You have always been there and now I can't be there for you.

But my heart has never left you--even when I "grew up" and got married and moved away.  I am still your little girl and you will always be my dear, sweet mother who has molded me into who I am today.

Dear Mother, my heart is with you.  My prayers and thoughts are directed towards you.  I know, with that faith you have instilled in me, that everything will work out because everything is in His hands.  And soon, oh I hope so soon, I will come to your side and brush my cheek against yours and tell you just how much I love you...and how I always have.

And when I think of "remember," I'll always think of you.

A Holy Experience Unwrapping...

Last night I read this:  "They were once a delightsome people, and they had Christ for their shepherd; yea, they were led even by God the Father." (Mormon 5:17)

And then this morning I read this:  "...yea, ye will not hearken unto the voice of the good shepherd..." (Helaman 7:18)

My mind has been pondering sheep and the Shepherd and discipleship ever since.

And then I read of how the Nephites grew proud because of their riches and blessings and then they let the adversary get hold over their hearts.  This all happened in just a few years (see Helaman 6-7).  And the question plagued me:  How do I prevent he adversary from getting a great hold on my heart?  What is the formula for keeping him at bay and away?  What is the antidote for pride?

Curled up in my armchair in the peace of this Autumn morning, the answers came...

First, I must listen to His voice moment by moment--continually seeking to do His will and not my own.  {This is how I can keep my heart centered on the Lord and reject the lures of the adversary.}

Second, I must give praise and thanks for every blessing which I receive, acknowledging that every thing comes from the Lord.  I can recognize that trials come to stir us up in remembrance of the One who descended below all things and shape us into more Christlike beings.  I can realize that blessings and talents, too, always come from Him. {This is how I can combat pride on the one hand and bitterness on the other--the two vices that distance ourselves from the Lord.}

And maybe, just maybe, I am beginning to unwrap the gift of learning to live A Holy Experience here in mortality.  To follow and to praise are perhaps two of the keys that unlock the beautiful mystery of learning how to live in holiness each day.

It's as if Autumn has brought me a turning.  A turning of green leaves to a golden hue...and a turning of my green heart to one with just a tint of gold now.

Yes.  All is Grace.

A Holy Experience Unwrapping...

Last night I read this:  "They were once a delightsome people, and they had Christ for their shepherd; yea, they were led even by God the Father." (Mormon 5:17)

And then this morning I read this:  "...yea, ye will not hearken unto the voice of the good shepherd..." (Helaman 7:18)

My mind has been pondering sheep and the Shepherd and discipleship ever since.

And then I read of how the Nephites grew proud because of their riches and blessings and then they let the adversary get hold over their hearts.  This all happened in just a few years (see Helaman 6-7).  And the question plagued me:  How do I prevent he adversary from getting a great hold on my heart?  What is the formula for keeping him at bay and away?  What is the antidote for pride?

Curled up in my armchair in the peace of this Autumn morning, the answers came...

First, I must listen to His voice moment by moment--continually seeking to do His will and not my own.  {This is how I can keep my heart centered on the Lord and reject the lures of the adversary.}

Second, I must give praise and thanks for every blessing which I receive, acknowledging that every thing comes from the Lord.  I can recognize that trials come to stir us up in remembrance of the One who descended below all things and shape us into more Christlike beings.  I can realize that blessings and talents, too, always come from Him. {This is how I can combat pride on the one hand and bitterness on the other--the two vices that distance ourselves from the Lord.}

And maybe, just maybe, I am beginning to unwrap the gift of learning to live A Holy Experience here in mortality.  To follow and to praise are perhaps two of the keys that unlock the beautiful mystery of learning how to live in holiness each day.

It's as if Autumn has brought me a turning.  A turning of green leaves to a golden hue...and a turning of my green heart to one with just a tint of gold now.

Yes.  All is Grace.

Journey to 1000 Gifts from Him. {Day 198}

#633 How the sun rests in golden glimmers on the leaves of the willow tree.

#642 Little boy noses smooth and perfect.

#645 Watching the boys in their first dress-up experience.

#649 Hearing nature's thunder, rumbly and majestic.

#650 Feeling such peace distill in my heart as I've reengaged myself to finding and scratching out the 1000 gifts.

#652 Anticipation--for phone calls and projects and checking things off my list.

#658 Remembering that life is not an emergency.

#668 Chicken and Dumplings.

#676 Peaceful glow of a bright rainy night bringing my mind back to my cherished Portugal.

#677 Finally accepting--and loving--the feel of Fall.

#678 Peace of not fighting the weather but instead finding the grace in each day and in each unique weather pattern.

#679 Loving life.

#680 Feeling Maylie--her aliveness and her sugary-shine personality.

"God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today.  Have you used one to say 'thank you?'"  ~William A. Ward

Journey to 1000 Gifts from Him. {Day 198}

#633 How the sun rests in golden glimmers on the leaves of the willow tree.

#642 Little boy noses smooth and perfect.

#645 Watching the boys in their first dress-up experience.

#649 Hearing nature's thunder, rumbly and majestic.

#650 Feeling such peace distill in my heart as I've reengaged myself to finding and scratching out the 1000 gifts.

#652 Anticipation--for phone calls and projects and checking things off my list.

#658 Remembering that life is not an emergency.

#668 Chicken and Dumplings.

#676 Peaceful glow of a bright rainy night bringing my mind back to my cherished Portugal.

#677 Finally accepting--and loving--the feel of Fall.

#678 Peace of not fighting the weather but instead finding the grace in each day and in each unique weather pattern.

#679 Loving life.

#680 Feeling Maylie--her aliveness and her sugary-shine personality.

"God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today.  Have you used one to say 'thank you?'"  ~William A. Ward

Feasting...

Today the morn began with a cloud of gloom on my head and remembrances of all that is worrying me and how weak I really am.

But then a feast in the word of God gave me new hope.

The story of King Lamoni has always touched me.  How he had been taught from his youth incorrect traditions and untruths.  How he had walked in ignorance his whole life, never knowing the doctrine of God or the Savior or the atonement.

And when he was finally given the glorious truths by the inspired missionary, Ammon, his heart was changed and he cried unto the Lord for mercy.

Subsequently, he fell to the earth and remained in this state for several days as he was taught in vision from on high.  The queen was concerned.  Was her husband dead?  But Ammon comforted her with the words, "...he sleepeth in God, and on the morrow he shall rise again;" (Alma 19:8)

And the verse that touched my heart so deeply today was this:

"Now, this was what Ammon desired, for he knew that king Lamoni was under the power of God; he knew that the dark veil of unbelief was being cast away from his mind, and the light which did light up his mind, which was the light of the glory of God, which was a marvelous light of his goodness--yea, this light had infused such joy into his soul, the cloud of darkness having been dispelled, and that the light of everlasting life was lit up in his soul, yea, he knew that this had overcome his natural frame, and he was carried away in God--" (Alma 19:6)

And as I read, I wanted this experience of light infusing my soul with joy and dispelling all clouds of darkness.  But how?

The answer came quickly.

I needed to fast from ingratitude and feast upon all of the goodness that the Lord is giving me.

I knew I needed to continue what I have been trying to practice all year--Eucharisteo, daily thanksgiving, praise to my Father.  And this I needed to do more fervently than I have been mustering these last few months.  My 1000 Gift List had only reached 616, and I knew I needed to recommit to writing down the gifts, the graces, the tender mercies from on high...every day...and many times during the day.  I knew I needed to rededicate my efforts in this cause so I can finish this year having fulfilled my goal of giving the Lord my daily praise for all of His goodness, His mercy, His grace.

And I will chronicle this journey, this practice, this 3-month project here...because this feasting on gratitude will surely produce great happiness on my continual quest for happiness.

 I sat down and pulled out my Gift List and scrawled out mercies until I reached 630.

And now my soul feels satisfied as it has been infused with gratitude and empowered with the Spirit.

I stand forever grateful for the tender mercy upon tender grace that the Lord gives to me.

The cloud has gone now.  And "the light of the glory of God, which [is] a marvelous light of his goodness" is warming my soul like the rays of Autumn sunshine.

It's yet again, a new beginning.

Feasting...

Today the morn began with a cloud of gloom on my head and remembrances of all that is worrying me and how weak I really am.

But then a feast in the word of God gave me new hope.

The story of King Lamoni has always touched me.  How he had been taught from his youth incorrect traditions and untruths.  How he had walked in ignorance his whole life, never knowing the doctrine of God or the Savior or the atonement.

And when he was finally given the glorious truths by the inspired missionary, Ammon, his heart was changed and he cried unto the Lord for mercy.

Subsequently, he fell to the earth and remained in this state for several days as he was taught in vision from on high.  The queen was concerned.  Was her husband dead?  But Ammon comforted her with the words, "...he sleepeth in God, and on the morrow he shall rise again;" (Alma 19:8)

And the verse that touched my heart so deeply today was this:

"Now, this was what Ammon desired, for he knew that king Lamoni was under the power of God; he knew that the dark veil of unbelief was being cast away from his mind, and the light which did light up his mind, which was the light of the glory of God, which was a marvelous light of his goodness--yea, this light had infused such joy into his soul, the cloud of darkness having been dispelled, and that the light of everlasting life was lit up in his soul, yea, he knew that this had overcome his natural frame, and he was carried away in God--" (Alma 19:6)

And as I read, I wanted this experience of light infusing my soul with joy and dispelling all clouds of darkness.  But how?

The answer came quickly.

I needed to fast from ingratitude and feast upon all of the goodness that the Lord is giving me.

I knew I needed to continue what I have been trying to practice all year--Eucharisteo, daily thanksgiving, praise to my Father.  And this I needed to do more fervently than I have been mustering these last few months.  My 1000 Gift List had only reached 616, and I knew I needed to recommit to writing down the gifts, the graces, the tender mercies from on high...every day...and many times during the day.  I knew I needed to rededicate my efforts in this cause so I can finish this year having fulfilled my goal of giving the Lord my daily praise for all of His goodness, His mercy, His grace.

And I will chronicle this journey, this practice, this 3-month project here...because this feasting on gratitude will surely produce great happiness on my continual quest for happiness.

 I sat down and pulled out my Gift List and scrawled out mercies until I reached 630.

And now my soul feels satisfied as it has been infused with gratitude and empowered with the Spirit.

I stand forever grateful for the tender mercy upon tender grace that the Lord gives to me.

The cloud has gone now.  And "the light of the glory of God, which [is] a marvelous light of his goodness" is warming my soul like the rays of Autumn sunshine.

It's yet again, a new beginning.

Preparing for the Sabbath

"Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.

"Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:

"But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God. ...

"...Wherefore, the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it."

~Exodus 20:8-11

If He rested on the seventh day, and hallowed it, and made the Sabbath for man, should we not consider this the pinnacle of our week?

A time to come before Him in worship, for as Elder L. Tom Perry states so beautifully:

"The pattern of Sabbath day observance must always include worship." 

And we worship first and foremost by coming to the Sacrament table to partake of the sacred emblems.

The bread to remind us of His broken body which was bruised and torn for us, but now lives again triumphantly resurrected.

Teaching us that we too may become whole and healed in body and spirit through Him.

The water to signify his blood, which was shed in the garden "for the remission of [our] sins."

Truly, "Partaking of the sacrament is the center of our Sabbath day observance."

They who lived long ago would bring a sacrifice to the altar, to give away, pointing to the great and last atoning sacrifice of our Lord, Jesus Christ, who gave us His very life.

And while the burnt offering was fulfilled in Christ, we still can and must bring to the altar a sacrifice.

A sacrifice of sin, a desire to give them all away in order to know Him.

For our Savior said, "And ye shall offer for a sacrifice unto me a broken heart and a contrite spirit."

So might we begin anew? 

To come to the Sabbath with outstretched arms and cupped hands, ready to receive His divine grace.  Ready to receive His sacrament, ready to sacrifice our sins, ready to rest from all the cares of the world.  

For in Him, they are all swallowed up,

and only peace and joy and love left in return.

Indeed, the Sabbath is a hallowed and holy day.

{This post is also linked up with A Holy Experience and Women Living Well}

Preparing for the Sabbath

"Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.

"Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:

"But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God. ...

"...Wherefore, the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it."

~Exodus 20:8-11

If He rested on the seventh day, and hallowed it, and made the Sabbath for man, should we not consider this the pinnacle of our week?

A time to come before Him in worship, for as Elder L. Tom Perry states so beautifully:

"The pattern of Sabbath day observance must always include worship." 

And we worship first and foremost by coming to the Sacrament table to partake of the sacred emblems.

The bread to remind us of His broken body which was bruised and torn for us, but now lives again triumphantly resurrected.

Teaching us that we too may become whole and healed in body and spirit through Him.

The water to signify his blood, which was shed in the garden "for the remission of [our] sins."

Truly, "Partaking of the sacrament is the center of our Sabbath day observance."

They who lived long ago would bring a sacrifice to the altar, to give away, pointing to the great and last atoning sacrifice of our Lord, Jesus Christ, who gave us His very life.

And while the burnt offering was fulfilled in Christ, we still can and must bring to the altar a sacrifice.

A sacrifice of sin, a desire to give them all away in order to know Him.

For our Savior said, "And ye shall offer for a sacrifice unto me a broken heart and a contrite spirit."

So might we begin anew? 

To come to the Sabbath with outstretched arms and cupped hands, ready to receive His divine grace.  Ready to receive His sacrament, ready to sacrifice our sins, ready to rest from all the cares of the world.  

For in Him, they are all swallowed up,

and only peace and joy and love left in return.

Indeed, the Sabbath is a hallowed and holy day.

{This post is also linked up with A Holy Experience and Women Living Well}

Walk as He would...

When shadows are all tucked into the blanket of sky and the moon shimmers as the world's one great nightlight I come to the posture of humble submissiveness--that of kneeling to bring before my Father the minutia of a day.  Somewhere in the middle of it all I ask a frequented question:

What wouldst Thou have me know tonight?

Then at the close of the prayer, I listen perched atop my bed covers, waiting, straining to hear the answer I'm sure will come.  And all I can feel is a tingling, numb sensation in my feet, which I try to brush off and ignore.  But the tingling intensifies and reality strikes me forcefully----

this is the answer. You must walk as He would walk in order to walk with Him.

It's as if the tingles are bathing my feet with a disciple's purpose, imbuing a stunning transformation.

I hold onto the tingles as long as I'm able, willing them to stay for just a moment longer, hoping this revelation will not slip into forgotten by morning.  But the miracle stays even when the tingle fades.   

My feet feel somehow different, more holy.  

And tomorrow I will look at my two feet with different eyes.  Where will they go?  What will they lead me to do?  All is adventure and all could be holiness if I can grant my feet willing emulation of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.