A Quiet Moment

It’s quiet today, and as I was straightening up from the festivities of the week (I promise I’ll write more about that later) and listening to Christmas music, I felt impressed to sit down and write a few of my thoughts about why this season means so much to me. I hope you don’t mind me sharing them with you.

I love the emotion evoked from listening to the music of the season, I love the sights and smells (and sweets) during the month of December, and I especially love the time spent with family and friends during the holidays.

When it comes to gifts and gift-giving, I smile when I watch the delight in our grandchildren’s eyes as they open their presents, and I’m gratified to know the gifts we give our children at Christmastime are appreciated. I want the gifts I give to friends and family to show I love them. And admittedly, I enjoy receiving thoughtful gifts from loved ones.

The gift I love and don’t make the time to appreciate like I should is the one reason we celebrate this season—the gift of that special baby boy born so many years ago. I’m grateful for Jesus Christ and the many gifts He’s given me—the wonderful life He lived here on earth and the example He set for me to follow, the teachings He taught that I can read in scripture, and His ultimate sacrifice in atoning for my sins, to name only a few. These are the gifts that matter most this time of year—and all year long.

The gifts I give pale in comparison, but I can give more and I can give better. One of the gifts I wish to give my Savior is a kinder heart toward others. It should be a simple gift but isn’t always, so I’ll start there for now.

I hope you’ll find a quiet moment today to ponder what makes this season special to you and to maybe choose one more gift you can give that really matters.  

Comments

[Julie Davidse]

Thanks, Shelli! I really appreciate you sharing your testimony of the Savior. You are so giving, kind, and cheerful, so I can imagine that your gift to Him will be accepted! You are an example of a true disciple! Thank you so much for all you do!

[Caryl]

Thank you for reminding me that I too need to work on having a kinder heart. It's easy to lose sight of that in the busy hustle and bustle of the season.

[rachel]

Jesus Christ is our Savior! I am so thankful He forgives us from our sins and that He loves us so much! I love this time of year when I reflect on his Grace. Thank you for your testimony!

[Roberta "Rubberta"]

Beautifully said.

[SHH]

Thank you for your post. I am grateful there are people like you who are willing to share your beliefs. After all, this is YOUR blog!
Happy New Year!

[themom]

Made me cry...and think about repentance!

[Claire Daly]

Lovely post Shelli. I'm having a quiet moment her too and just might scrapbook these thoughts your post has inspired. Have a lovely break with your family, and some more quiet time.

[Kristine John]

It is the most important thing we can do everyday...remember our Savior and turn our hearts to Him. Thank you for that reminder...it is wonderful to feel like Christ truly is the reason for the season, and not all of the commerical focus that so often creeps in.
Your kind heart already blesses the lives of so many...may the Lord help you see and understand the depth and breadth of your influence. May He also lead you to help others in your path...

[Patty Bennett]

Thank you for reminding us to slow down in this busy season and reflect on the baby in the manger. He truly was the GREATEST gift ever!

Love and warmest wishes to you and Sterling!

See you in Phoenix!

Patty

[Sue Scheets (Sushi)]

You have a gift for words. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Sushi

[Jan in Tucson]

Shelli, thank you for your testimony. He surely must be smiling. I know I am. Under the same wing, Jan in Tucson

[Deb]

Thank you for sharing your Love for Our Lord and Saviour!
Love to you and yours, Deb

[Jane]

You have such a beautiful way with words. I don't know how you can have a kinder heart than you do now. You are one terrific lady! Thanks for all you do.

[Wanda Clasen]

Dear Shelli, you are such an inspiration to me. Thank so much for this eloquent post.

Sincerly, Wanda