Wow! Can we say slacker??? I guess I owe it all to Zach... busier during the day and sleepier at night. I'm not complaining at all!
Anyway, I will get to the point before I forget to.... The other night we had an FHE devotional with a bunch of dental students (have I mentioned how much I love Ben's school?) Anyway, the doctor (and his wife) that did the lesson is over Ben's dental lab. He and his lovely wife said a lot of really amazing things that I have been thinking about, but one thing has stuck with me all week and probably will for a long time in the future. He quoted Sheri Dew from one of her books. She had asked a general authority how they could tell how close someone was to the Lord. She thought their answer would be textbook like by how much they read their scriptures, etc. Anyway, the general authority said that he could tell how close someone was to the Lord BY HOW THEY TREATED OTHERS. Profound. I have been thinking about this all week. I totally get it. Its not how much we know or how much people know about us. It's not how good we sing or if our kids know all the answers... What really matters is how we treat each other. What a novel idea, huh!
Looking back through the years and thinking about the most spiritual people I have come into contact with, including general authorities, it is easy to see that people close to the Lord do not care about status or anything worldly about that person. They are far more interested in the individual and recognize them as our brothers and sisters and our Heavenly Fathers children. I'm going to try a little harder to do that too. Sometimes I forget. Especially in a long line with grouchy retired people;)
This experience from Sheri Dew reminded me of President Uchtdorf's talk: I hope you will take a couple minutes to read it. It has truly changed me. Here is one of his promises: "As we extend our hands and hearts toward others in Christlike love, something wonderful happens to us. Our own spirits become healed, more refined, and stronger. We become happier, more peaceful, and more receptive to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit."
I don't know that anyone actually reads this blog, but if you do.... I want you to know that I love you and the Lord loves you. He is aware of who you are and what you are going through. He wants to help you and He will, if you will let Him in:) I really am happier and a more receptive person when I am able to serve and show this Christlike love.
I read your blog, Jamie! I really enjoyed this post. I love you too and I take up the challenge to be kinder to others. You know me, I am so mean. :)
ReplyDeleteWe had the same devotional and the same thought stuck with Dan and I as well. Think how the world would be if we all took this advice to heart!
ReplyDeleteI read your blog. I love it and you! You always have something insightful to say. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this devotional. A good reminder for me.
ReplyDeleteYour family is so cute and you are beautiful!
Yes. And I thought it interesting that you of all people think you need to be kinder to people. When I think of kind people, you would be one of the top. Miss you so much!!!!
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