It's finals week in the Harlow House.
The Little Nies are finishing up the term which means
that testing has begun.
We've had our share of tears, exhaustion, frustration,
Priesthood blessings, prayers, success, and stress.
And I wondered if we could get through our nightly family scripture devotional
with all the homework and studying that needed to happen.
But after dinner we split the Little Nies up into "companionships".
Claire and Ollie, Nicholas and Jane, and me with Mr. Nielson and Lottie.
Each companionship was studying a different Christlike attribute
using the Preach My Gospel missionary manual.
Each group paired off and had 10 minutes to prepare.
Mr. Nielson and I (Lottie too) went to the couch to discuss, but mostly
we listened and observed our children with their scriptures open reading
and discussing their feelings about the topic.
I was overwhelmed with peace and knew why the term
"heaven on earth" was invented,
because I was pretty sure I was experiencing it.
When we all met together after the 10 minutes was up,
the Little Nies presented their thoughts beautifully, sharing what they had
studied and learned specifically the Christlike attributes of
faith, hope, and charity.
They even shared some great examples from
their own little lives.
Then it got a little rocky when we ended and it was time now
for five people to shower and get ready for bed.
But I'd like to focus just on the good parts of the evening.
"Faith leads to action, including repentance, obedience, and dedicated service.
When you have faith in Jesus Christ, you trust the Lord enough to follow
His commandments—even when you do not completely
understand the reasons for them."
* *
"Hope is an abiding trust that the Lord will fulfill His promises to you.
Hope helps you conquer discouragement."
* *
"Charity is “the pure love of Christ”
You will come to feel a sincere concern for the eternal
welfare and happiness of other people.
You will see them as children of God with the potential of
becoming like our Heavenly Father."
