In this month's Ensign there is a great article entitled "The Joy of Nurturing Children." In it, three different women share their experiences in nurturing children - their own and others. I really enjoyed this article. I was especially touched by the last woman's account of longing and hoping to give birth to a child even as she adopted eight others. She had a crisis of faith because her patriarchal blessing stated that she would have children. Finally she confessed to the Lord and to herself (sometimes I think that is the harder of the two) that her testimony did not hinge on this one point. She CHOSE to believe the gospel even though she didn't understand how her patriarchal blessing could be fulfilled. (I really believe that faith is a choice - and active, at times difficult, choice.)
I think so many of us have experienced similar trials of faith. It is so hard for me at times to remember that my perspective is so finite while the Lord's blessings are infinite. I think that if I can't see the whole picture right now, then it certainly can't work out. I am humbled and inspired when the Spirit teaches me to trust in the Lord's plan for me. It is motivating to remember that He has always come through for me - every time without fail. Sometimes I must have the faith to believe (as Shadrach, Meschach, and Abednego did) that the Lord will provide a way but to also say (as they did) "but if not..." (Daniel 3:17-18). I am inspired by that. They had faith that they would be saved but they also recognized with humility that the Lord's work and truth are absolute and not dependent on any one situation turning out the way WE think it should.
I'm so grateful that the Lord affords me the opportunity to keep learning and progressing even in my weakness and pride.
If you haven't read the article yet, I highly recommend it!
Monday, April 7, 2008
Joy in Nurturing
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2 response(s):
I will surely read that article. I need all the help I can get! Thanks
I used to be so certain that it was my lot on life to love and nurture other people's children. I am the greatest, aunt, primary teacher, traveling nanny on the planet! I just couldn't make room in my mind that I would find myself loving a 2.5 year old little boy as if he were mine (not just presents and spoiling on the weekends) and now facing the birth of my first child. I am always so certain that I know the direction of my life. You hit the nail on the head "progression with weakness and pride." Amen to that.
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