Sunday, November 16, 2008

A Season of Gratitude

The past few months we've enjoyed many special blessings. This verse from Alma sums up our feelings “…live in thanksgiving daily, for the many mercies and blessings which he doth bestow upon you.” Alma 34:38

It's nearly impossible to make a list of our blessings, but here are some we're especially grateful for:

Wonderful missionaries who have become our substitute children, our forever friends, our heroes and examples of what is good and right in the world

Heavenly assitance in the Mission Office helping us do things we do not know how to do and giving us energy we did not know we could have

Celebrating the 36th anniversary of our marriage in the mission field, and being too busy to really celebrate, but being okay with that

Despite all her problems, our wonderful land of America, and so many who have and continue to sacrifice for our freedom and safety

Daily uplifting and spiritually nourishing morning devotionals with our office staff

Recognizing now more than ever, that Heavenly Father knows and loves His children, and hears and answers prayers

Our wonderful, faithful children, who have become our truest best friends, and who are trying so hard to do and be their very best each day

Precious grandchildren who add sparkle and laughter to every conversation, and the announcement of a baby granddaughter to join our family in February ‘09

Missionary miracles – they are everywhere, and testify of heavenly help in the details of our lives

Less active members finding their way back to our Heavenly Father and activity in the Church, and so many seeking for something better in their lives, and finding it in the gospel of Jesus Christ

Observing the faithfulness and sacrifice of senior and younger missionaries serving around the world

Our children’s wonderful blogs that keep us connected with home and family

Webcams, telephones and emails – the modern miracles of senior missionary service

Zone conferences filled with learning, growth, insight and goodness

Safety in stormy weather travel

Appreciating the watchful care, love, and concern of President and Sister Jones for their missionaries and participating as the work goes forward in our mission

The blessings and power of the priesthood - amazing and life changing

Beautiful Fall days and cool Fall evenings and seasons of change

Wonderful members of the Church being 'examples of the believer' as they try to do their best every day in following the Savior

Family visits, phone calls, emails, and packages from home

General Relief Society meeting and General Conference – remarkable men and women providing spiritual insight and direction for our journey on earth

The baptism yesterday of a gentleman we've been teaching, and the miracles that were involved in that

Coming to understand better what life is all about, and what really is most important


1 comment:

Connie said...

Beautifully said, Mary. Thank you for so many uplifting thoughts of gratitude. And congratulations on another little granddaughter. Happy Thanksgiving!

Love, Connie