In my sister’s car I noticed a container of brightly coloured Tic Tacs. I picked them up and my sister informed me that they are for those who put on their straps themselves without whining. Feeling a childish sense of pride, I pointed to my secured seatbelt and happily took a Tic Tac. I had, after all, put it on without complaining. I was reflecting on this experience as I walked to church this morning. I was wondering what made it so hard for my three year old nephew to put on his straps, and for me a returned missionary, to go to church, without whining. For my nephew, perhaps when he knows what he has to do, whining is a way to keep hold of a little bit of control. I may be no different. I know it is important for me to go to Church. I know it is required if I am going to receive all the blessings God wants to give me, if I am going to progress and become who I want to become. For my nephew to receive a candy, it is not good enough for him merely to get the straps on himself, he must do it without whining. When he does, the candy is guaranteed. I am sure the same is true with me and God. His promises are sure. I believe that if I go to Church, digging in my heels and whining, he will still bless me, but I will be miserable. If I cheerfully go to church, holding nothing back, not even my attitude, he will pour out blessings in abundance, and I will be able to receive them all. Until I give all, I will not be able to receive all the Father has to give. This reminded me of a talk given by Neal A. Maxwell in which he concludes “Consecration thus constitutes the only unconditional surrender which is also a total victory!” I want that total victory, and so I must totally surrender. Cheerfully.
No comments:
Post a Comment