His Presence...

Two-Thousand Fourteen...

"The more we devote ourselves to the pursuit of holiness and happiness, the less likely we will be on a path to regrets...to avoid some of the deepest regrets of life, let us: RESOLVE to spend more time with those we love. RESOLVE to strive more earnestly to BECOME the person God wants us to be. RESOLVE to find happiness, regardless of our circumstances." ~President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

I've been pondering what to OVERCOME and who God wants me to BECOME this year. This scripture came to mind: "Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God." (Matt. 5:8). As i strive to unclutter my life and in sincerity and humility seek the pure and gentle Christ with my heart, i will see Him and find Him this year. The mutual theme this year is, "Come Unto Christ" (Moroni 10:32). Accepting this invitation means i've committed to follow Christ's perfect example by living a virtuous and consecrated life...and by loving and serving others. As i thought on this, Christmas morning i had an idea of doing the 12 months of Christmas.

"The magic of Christmas is not in the presents, but in His presence."

I want to be a modern-day wiseman (woman) and see with my heart that which is essential and most sacred. Naturally, December is a season of rejoicing and celebrating by giving gifts, so by continuing to give gifts of the heart (i.e. time, talents, charitable acts of kindness, love and seeking the Lamb of God) i know i will SEE Him daily...a guiding star (true example) for my journey back to the presence of our Heavenly Father. Here are a few areas in which i RESOLVE to dedicate my time and efforts:

• FAITH
• FAMILY
• FRIENDS
• FOCUSING
• FINANCES
• FITNESS
• FOOD
• FUN

As i draw near to the Lord, i will have an increased desire to serve others and I will find this promise to be true:

"When you give your heart to inviting people to come unto Christ, your heart will be changed. You will be doing His work for Him. You will find that He keeps His promise to be one with you in your service. You will come to know Him. And in time you will come to be like Him and 'be perfected in Him.' " ~President Henry B. Eyring

 If you'd like to develop and/or prepare spiritual gifts throughout the year and participate in the 12 months of CHRISTmas too...here is a wonderful article to get you started, "Preparing Gifts For Your Future Family." It can easily be applied to our current families too.
http://www.lds.org/new-era/2014/01/preparing-gifts-for-your-future-family?lang=eng

Love, Michelle