Sparks that ignite my soul
I have to share with all of you something that I am immeasurably grateful for - That my husband and I belong to a wonderful church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) which brings to our lives so much happiness! As well as meaning, purpose, and direction. We feel a tremendous devotion to Jesus Christ, our Savior and friend, and do our best to live his teachings.
I have to share with all of you something that I am immeasurably grateful for - That my husband and I belong to a wonderful church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) which brings to our lives so much happiness! As well as meaning, purpose, and direction. We feel a tremendous devotion to Jesus Christ, our Savior and friend, and do our best to live his teachings.
This weekend we have been richly blessed by listening to General Conference. For those of you who do not know, General Conference is a world-wide conference held twice a year, spanning a two day period - In this time there are four general sessions wherein many of the church leaders (including the prophet Thomas S. Monson) address the public on inspired topics. Members of the church and people from all nations are taught and counseled through their words.
I have a deep love for these brethren and their genuine concern for all of God's children. I always look forward to hearing what they have to say - (and not just because I get to sleep in and listen from the comfort of my own home :) But because I know from prior experience that their messages are invaluable! As each speaker stands to bear testimony of truth, I feel comfort and surety wash over me in waves.
To come away from watching General Conference without some things in mind that I want to change about myself would mean that I wasn't really listening. Because, when I do listen, my heart is changed, my mind is opened, and I am truly motivated. So let me share with you some of my favorite quotes (or sparks that ignite my soul) from this, the 181st General Conference:
Saturday Morning Session
"Christ should be the centerpiece of our lives"
"Be as little children submissive, meek, humble, patient and full of love."
"No woman should ever feel the need to apologize or feel less about herself for raising her children at home."
"A person cannot give a crust to theLord without receiving a loaf in return"
Saturday Afternoon Session
"Kindness is an essence of greatness".
Sunday Morning Session
"Selfless acts refine our spirits..."
"Sometimes we want to have growth without challenges...The only way to see the view is to make the climb"
"Do not resent the very things [trials and tribulation] that will develop our divine nature"
"Marriage is the ideal circumstance to learn selflessness."
Challenge: When asked about how our weekend went try to skip mentioning sporting events, and other activities. Make an effort to share a spiritual experience or something we learned, or even something we found humorous while attending our meetings. This is one of many ways we can share the gospel in an un-intrusive way. It's an important part of our lives, and those who love us and those we love have a right to hear about it.
Challenge: Put a temple picture in every room
Sunday Afternoon Session
"It's time to tell you I love you"
"Mothers have divine instincts"
"Niether our professions, nor our possessions determine who we are."
"Thank you for loving me enough to cut me down."
"Preach the gospel at all times; and when necessary, use words."
Lynn G Robbins - I need to remember to reference this talk later. Lots of great suggestions about raising children in the gospel. I especially liked the idea of praising a childs' character traits instead of the accomplishment. Ex: acknowledging the diligence it took to keep their room clean rather than just commenting on the clean room.
I know that these meetings are divinely inspired and that they have the power to touch individual lives.I know this in an elemental way, the same way I know that God lives and loves me, the same way I know I love my husband and he loves me--it's something in my core. I find great JOY in knowing that there is a safe channel, a place I can tune to hear God's word, to find safety and peace for myself and my family.
If you didn't get a chance to listen, here is a link where you can find all of the audio (and the text will be up by Thursday.) What were some of your favorite quotes?
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