Sunday Scripture: Hope

Moroni 7:40

And again, my beloved brethren, I would speak unto you concerning hope. How is it that ye can attain unto faith, save ye shall have hope?

"Hope is the anchor of our souls. I know of no one who is not in need of hope—young or old, strong or weak, rich or poor. As the prophet Ether exhorted, “Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God.”

James E. Faust (November 1999 Ensign)

Today I was fortunate to attend Stake Conference (a twice a year special meeting for about 6-8 wards) with my parents. My Dad was in the choir so just my mom and I sat together (children stayed home today), it was a wonderful meeting, filled with all the things I was needing to hear! All of the Bishop's wives were asked to speak and each of their talks were part of this masterful quilt, none of them assigned, all spoken from the spirit and it was amazing how they all blended together perfectly. My sweet friend Michelle spoke and the things she said touched me, she recalled the pain of losing her son shortly after he was born some years ago, and then the Hope that she was able to live on, knowing she would see him again. The reminder to hold on, even when life deals us a nasty blow, a difficult test or a road block, was very much needed in my life at this time.

I have had several things that have been weighing heavily on my mind recently. A close family member received some scary news related to their health and for me it felt like a stone to the head. It was difficult to be so far away so that is why I jumped in my car and came to Vegas, I wanted to feel some what useful and supportive. There was a minor surgery and things are looking hopeful.

Another heart ache I have is watching my parents, who have done nothing but help everyone around them for years, including but not limited to their children, extended family members, friends, strangers, neighbors, and anyone that stood in need. They are now feeling the EXTREME downturn of the economy, my father works in the Commercial Real Estate industry and has for 25 years, and has never seen it this bad before. I worry for them, I know that the Lord watches over them, yet the thought of them struggling is more painful than when we were out of a job. I truly know and understand that trials don't only come to those that are doing wrong, but it sure stinks when good people, trying to do the right things are handed a whopper and gosh darn I can't prevent it.

My mother tells me that everything will be OK, that "some how things will work out", and I wonder why she is comforting me. Where is that magic wand when I need it? Then today I was encouraged to have hope and to lean on the Lord, He has his eye on them and that there is a reason for this trial. Maybe He wants them to move closer to their amazing daughter that lives in Colorado, maybe!!?? :)

I want to bear my testimony that I know that through Christ there is Hope, there is reason to hold on and keep going. I know there are so many people in the same predicament as my parents but I know that through faith, prayer and doing what is right He will bless us beyond our comprehension. I know He loves me and watches over me and my family. I know that Thomas S. Monson is a true Prophet, that he is guided and directed by our Heavenly Father. I know the Book of Mormon to be a testament of Jesus Christ and by reading it I am able to feel the promptings of the Holy Ghost and that I grow closer to the Lord. I know these things to be true, there is NO DOUBT about it, it has been witnessed to me too many times in my life to think other wise. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Happy Sunday

All my love

Sunday Scripture: Tender Mercies of the Lord

1Nephi 1:20

And when the Jews heard these things they were angry with him; yea, even as with the prophets of old, whom they had cast out, and stoned, and slain; and they also sought his life, that they might take it away. But behold, I, Nephi, will show unto you that the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their faith, to make them mighty even unto the power of deliverance.




I pray that my intent is felt in these words today. For most of my life I have struggled with depression, it has nearly consumed me at times and yet through my Heavenly Father I am still here battling the demons that feel closer to the service more recently. I know that I am not the only one that has been dealt this hand, and I strive every day not to allow it to overtake me. I know with all that I am that the Lord has delivered me from the pain of depression multiple times and He will again, I don't know the whens or whys, but He will. I trust in Him, in His will, this is my trial and with Him I can endure. If your prayers might be offered in my behalf, I ask of them now. Even if you do not believe the same as me, I would appreciate it.

Humbled and Happy Sunday

All my love

Sunday Scripture! Faith and Hope

Ether 12:4

"Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God."

Today was a GREAT Sunday at church! Yes, we were a bit late, and yes, I sent Jimmy ahead with the kids because after 20 interruptions I was the last one ready, and yes, I was feeling a little ADD while sitting Sunday school so I played a small game of solitaire on my ipod. Then Relief Society came and there is something about my new ward, the new ladies I have met just somehow make every Sunday great! I love chatting with them as we wait for R.S to begin and then in the hallways after, OK so sometimes a little laughing during, but I really try hard to pay attention! I have realized today how there is something about just being with all these women that believe, and try, and work, and cry about many of the same things I do, that just lifts me! I get a boost knowing that no matter where I am, if I am strong in my faith that the Lord will bless me. He will send people to teach me and walk beside me as he would.

I was beyond blessed in Las Vegas with friends who could read my mind, with an unexpected phone call or cookies at my door just when I was on the verge of whatever or wherever we mothers go to at times. It was very difficult to leave them, to leave the support system that I had for 25 years, I wasn't sure I would find people to belong with, which shows my lack of faith I guess. Yet here I am just 6 weeks in our new home and I feel it bubbling, you know, that feeling of excitement when you know a whole new chapter is ahead and each page is more amazing as you go! Well, that's what I felt today as I was walking to our car to go home and my kids are happily telling me about their classes, as my sweet Grace said "Mom, this is my favorite place in the whole world, today I learned EVERYTHING!"

So today I give thanks to my Heavenly Father who knows me, who knows all the right elements to add to my life to give me piece and provide strength and substance to my story. I also give thanks to the women who have touched my life through their service and love!



Oh and I didn't see this video until after I wrote the post, crazy huh?!?

Love to you