Over the past few weeks I have been hurt and wounded by "things" in my life. Nothing big or major, just letting myself get strung out. I took the time last week to see a dear friend, who also happens to be a what I call a Christ-Centered Counselor, Dr. Carl Mumpower. He reminded me that I need to spend time and focus on ME. The example I am to others, (am I modeling Christ?), and the love that I share with others. He also pointed out that in this I should be focused on doing the RIGHT thing, not just because I think someone else wants me to do it but because I have connected with God and HE has guided me to do it.
At the end of the conversation we spoke of my desire to feel accepted in my church congregation. He pointed out, "{Your} church is known for many good things but intimacy is not one of them." I have been pondering that, and how if a non-Mormon (who reads and studies regularly) has gotten that message, how true is it. I know I have moments of feeling close to those I attend church with and moments of feeling extremely distant.
A friend, pastor at another church, mentioned on my Facebook post about this that to often we try to go to church with a sort of painted face that all is well. He wrote a blog about it where he pointed out that one of the reasons is we do not take TIME for each other. You can read his post here (I suggest you listen to the music video at the bottom esp)!
http://revclreese.blogspot.com/2012/03/hospital-full-of-healthy-people.html
Then yesterday I was asked to write a tribute for my uncle who is celebrating his 70th birthday today. I pondered the wonderful spirit he shares with everyone who comes in contact with him.
As I said in the tribute, he is one of a small number of people who I truly can call a SAINT.
All of these things together have contributed to my recommitting myself to be a better Christian to those around me. To take that moment, or hours, to be the person they need in their life. To allow myself to break down my own emotional walls and connect with them on a deeper level. To share feelings of sincere admiration for them when I feel so inclined and to BE BETTER.
LOVE FOR ALL!
Marian Hobson
