10.22.2007

Feed His Sheep

Of all the blessings I have had in my life, one of the sweetest is that feeling the Lord provides when I know that He has answered the prayer of another person through me.” (Thomas S. Monson)


One of the (few) advantages of getting older is that you are sometimes able to look back and see a reason for something that happened or that you did in the past. It's a wonderful gift when you discover that you were really the instrument that the Lord used to answer a prayer. It is, as Pres. Monson says, a sweet, sweet blessing, one I"m grateful for.

To hear from someone that you love but hadn't heard from in some time that you were (and still are) important and meaningful in their life is a gift and an uplift. It's something to be grateful for, and today, for me, that's very special. It makes me so thankful for the spiritual promptings I do receive, and that (thank goodness!) I even sometimes act on my feelings.

It also inspires me to be more in tune, more compassionate, more aware and more active in seeking those inspirations so that I can help feed His sheep for Him.

7 comments:

Kristi said...

Jan, this is so true!! It is amazing to me to look back on decisions Nolan and I have made in the past not knowing where it would take us, and see the blessings that we never would have anticipated. I loved Thomas S. Monson's quote, too. Thanks for the wonderful thoughts...believe me, I needed it.

hoLLy said...

I agree. Sometimes, when you are in the present, you don't see the big picture. Its not until you look back, that you see how one choice may have blessed you or another person along the way. So, I guess I need to make the right choices! Thanks for sharing that quote. And thanks for sharing your thoughts!! I always love reading them.

Jori said...

I was just thinking about this yesterday. I love the fact that prayers can be answered through other people. I think it's so important if we are inspired to do something to follow through with it. It may not make much sense to us at the time but we should still do it. Ryan has been having big doubts about adopting. that is why I have been in hysterics lately. Yesterday for no reason at all one of his clients started talking about how she was an only child because her sisters died when she was young. She said how lonely she was growing up, and that now that she is older she is taking care of her parents by herself. That woman doesn't know it but she was a total answer to prayer, Ryan's doubts are laid to rest and we are moving forward. Great post as always Jan(sorry for the long comment:)

Seth, Sarah and the kids said...

I just love how you are always on the mark with what I need. I have been dealing with alot of silent struggles lately, and this was what I needed. Thank you, you are a great example of someone who is always listening...you make a perfect instrument, jan.

Darleen said...

That's awesome Jori. And so very well put! I love this posting. How important it is to say our daily prayers and scriptures and ponder and meditate. It keeps us with an open channel of communication.

tara said...

wonderful post jan. I so enjoyed it. Nice comment from Jori too. Sweet experience:)

Natalie Scott said...

Congratulations, Jori! I don't know you but I do know how we moms ache for children...I'm so happy for you, you are obviously a great mom.

I am certain, Jan, that you are one of God's most useful instruments. Thank you for the always sweet posts.