joy

I've been trying really REALLY hard to read scriptures with the girls every night.  I'll admit it's never been something we've done consistently.  I'm usually falling apart by bedtime but lately, with Sarah's crazy enthusiasm, we've been staying on track.  This is the longest stretch we done of reading each night (missing a night here or there because we're visiting family until late or everything is haywire for whatever reason) at about two and a half weeks.  I have to say it brings a great feeling into our home that I'd been neglecting to focus on. 

Sarah loves reading the scriptures.  I offer to read her other books but she declines and asks for more scriptures.  I feel blessed by her because she helps me stay on track so much.  Allison has a hard time sitting still (for anything really) but she is allowed to play quietly as long as she doesn't get louder than I speak or start jumping around the room.  She usually plays with her stuffed animals or plays with blocks.

We started in third Nephi because I wanted the girls to experience the visit from Jesus Christ.  It's been a long time since I've read that far into the Book of Mormon so it was a learning experience again for me.  We learned about the Gaddianton robbers and how important it is to be prepared and listen to Heavenly Father.  Sarah was so engrossed with that story.  Tonight we read about the destruction of all the cities after the crucifixion of Christ.  Sarah was riveted.  Even Allison said, 'Heavenly Father was so mad!'. 

Each section or paragraph and sometimes sentence I pause and explain to the girls what it means.  It helps me process and it helps them understand.  It's such a beautiful feeling that fills my spirit with joy.  I love the connections the girls make as we relate it to life now.  Tonight I was explaining the idea of a blood sacrifice and how when Jesus died it negated the need for a blood sacrifice.  I started to tear up because it was such a powerful idea and Sarah was so open to hearing it.  I don't know if she understood it but I felt the Spirit and I know she did too. 

I am learning a new appreciation for the scriptures.  I am loving the habit the girls and I and Joel have settled into.  I feel the Spirit that reading the scriptures brings into our home and I'm so thankful for the motivation and determination to continue on and learn more about our Savior and His life.