Sunday, July 27, 2008

Count Your Blessings

About two weeks ago I was privileged to give a Priesthood blessing to a woman at my work. I've been reflecting on the trials she has been given in her life and in so doing I have felt so very grateful for all my many blessings but also for the many "thorns" I have been "given"! (See 2 Cor. 12:7)

In explaining this woman's situation I think it's worth noting that she lost a son a few years back just after his mission. She also lost her mother within the last year. And if all that wasn't enough, a few weeks ago, this woman's husband passed away unexpectedly in his sleep.

She had, understandably, been away from work for a couple of weeks and her first few days back were extremely hard! She asked for a blessing and I was honored to give her one. Without going into too many details, I would like to share just a few thoughts.

During the blessing I was deeply moved. I couldn't stop thinking about the perfect love of our Savior! I had this feeling that the Lord gives us trials BECAUSE He loves us, not because He doesn't; and often times those trials are very specific to our individual situations, strengths and needs! I couldn't help but feel that these trials were in some way a part of God's love.

This experience has also caused me to count my many blessings! I have so many good things going for me and unfortunately I don't appreciate those wonderful things quite like I should. It's hard enough for most of us to recognize God's love when things are going great, but it is a true disciple that can see God's flawless and abiding love even through the deepest despair.

No comments: