New Testament

As a family we have moved our scripture study to the mornings.  We have always read The Book of Mormon daily as a family, but usually right before bed.  The switch to mornings has allowed it to be more meaningful, less like an afterthought.  Also we have added reading the New Testament as well.  What a beautiful spirit this has invited into our home!  I feel closer to the Savior and have better comprehended His mission and atonement.  Heavenly Father has blessed us with our Redeemer and the scriptures that help us know Him.  What a wonderful, magnificent gift!

During scripture time in the morning our little ones seem more reverent.  Maybe they are just still too groggy to get into trouble.  Everyone sits around on the sofas, chairs, and fireplace with their scriptures on their phones, tablets, and/or leather-bound copies.  We usually take turns reading The Book of Mormon, but sometimes just one of us reads.  We have read it about a dozen times as a family since we've been married.  Jaremy usually reads the New Testament to us.  Then we kneel in family prayer.  These traditions have blessed our family beyond measure!  I believe they have saved our family and given each of us the strength we need to resist temptation.

No, each day is not a spiritual feast.  But it is like Elder David A. Bednar likened it to a painting.  Each stroke on it's own can be abstract, meaningless, even ugly.  But together they culminate to make a beautiful, meaningful picture.  I have to admit most of our family scripture times include scolding for reverence or tardiness.  Slowly, as parents, we are improving and becoming more patient.  And as the years pass the kids are becoming more attentive as well.  

I'm so grateful we decided before we were married these traditions would be at the heart of our family culture.  The Lord has blessed us so much!!!  We have more peace in our home.  Yes, we still have bursts of contention, but we are gradually replacing that with love.  That blessing comes from the Lord!