Tuesday, December 5, 2017

Our walk today was lovely and as we came into the parking lot it started to rain.  Even though I love beautiful snowfalls, we were glad it wasn’t snow. 

Attendance is still down in the temple for many reasons, and it makes me feel bad about the tremendous expense it takes to keep this huge edifice running every day.  We pray that church members will be inspired to make the sacrifices required to come and renew their own covenants and do proxy work that will bless those who can’t do it for themselves.

Most of you probably heard the First Presidency Christmas Devotional Sunday evening so this will be repetitious, but it was such a beautiful thought and worthy of being repeated.

From Pres. Dieter F Uchtdorf’s address at the Christmas Devotional December 3, 2017

“During this beloved Christmas season, it is fitting that we take delight in the lights, music, gifts, and glitter. This is all a part of why we love this time of year so much.

“But let us never forget that we are disciples and followers of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. To truly honor His coming into the world, we must do as He did and reach out in compassion and mercy to those who suffer.

“This we can do daily, by word and deed. Let this become our Christmas tradition, no matter where we are—to be a little kinder, more forgiving, less judging, more grateful, and more generous in sharing our abundance with those in need.

“My wife, Harriet, joins me in sending you our love, best wishes, and greetings for a very Merry Christmas. May the contemplation of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem inspire us to be like Him. May Christ’s mission and example cause our hearts to swell with divine love for God and deep compassion for our fellowmen. And may we ever scatter out our crumbs with greater generosity and unceasing love.”

Good Night Everyone!  Love and hugs to you all!  Enjoy every moment of the season!

My beautiful flowers are still blooming!