A few weeks ago, school began. Now we have a 9th grader & a 7th grader at the same school (junior high is 7-9), a 5th grader, a 2nd grader and I have my little 'baby' (2.5 year old )girl home with me. She had the opportunity to go to a preschool- but it didn't make sense financially and frankly, I love having her home with me. It is actually not a burden at all to have her around. She is such a joy and after sending four off to school - I realize how fast the time goes. Naturally when a new school year begins, it seems like my 'school' year begins. I start thinking of the goals I want to accomplish, what I want to learn, and how to keep my family organized, well fed, etc.
This year more than ever, I am really trying to rely on the spiritual to pull me through. I am a stubborn person (yes, I admit it) and I normally rely on true grit to get me through. But, I am getting older and tired, and I don't think I can keep this up much longer. Luckily, I don't have to.
None of us have to rely entirely on our own strength. We have all been given a great gift. This gift is the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Growing up, I always thought that the Atonement was only to wash away our sins. Yes, that is essential part of the Atonement and one we all need, because we are all sinners, but I am learning that the Atonement is more expansive and far reaching than I have ever realized. It is not only for my sins, but for my shortcomings, for my weaknesses and for my struggles. What a beautiful thing to think that when I feel weak, exhausted, sad, depressed- I can rest my burden at the Saviors feet. It doesn't make it go away- it makes it bearable, it lightens my load and gives me hope beyond my own limited capacity.
Fulfilling all my responsibilities and roles can be, frankly, overwhelming. I have learned that the more I depend on the Lord and his promises and that when I seek for his spiritual strength and guidance... it doesn't seem so overwhelming anymore. I can see clearly where my energies should go and I seem to accomplish the things that are most important.
In Matthew 6:33 it reads;
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness;
and all these things shall be added unto you."
This year I will seek to use the gift of Atonement more fully in my life. This year I will seek first for the things spiritual and have Faith that when I put the Lords' will first he will help me with everything else in my life.
How do you use the Atonement to strengthen and bless your life?
