Sabbath Day Thoughts

I remember being young and dreading Sundays. I didn't like the restrictions like not being able to play with friends. Church itself was OK overall, but seemed to my young self to be long and frequently boring. Our family always sat on the very front row, a row that in most wards is always empty. I'm sure my mom loved everyone watching our antics as we goofed off, quietly or not, during sacrament meeting.

These feelings changed over time. In college, I recognized that going to church helped me be a better person. I made it a point to go, even when my parents weren't with me. I knew that continuing with regular church attendance was important to me. 

Now my feelings have deepened to something much more. I realized a few years ago that I look forward to Sundays now. I love that I can ignore my to do list and focus on things that are less stressful. When I first kneel to pray on Sunday mornings, I feel different than during the week. I feel grateful for the Sabbath. Sundays are frequently busy, especially with my calling, but it still feels more restful. I love having extra time to study. I don't see Sundays as restrictive like I used to. I look at it as a day that is separate from other days and I love spending more time focusing on Christ. 

Church is more enjoyable to me now than when I was a kid. I learn so much from others in my ward. I love hearing different perspectives. The more I study throughout the week, the more excited I am to hear comments from others because it helps point me in a different direction than my own thoughts have taken me. If I do start to feel bored during church, I recognize that I am less engaged. When I pay more attention to the talks and lessons, the boredom goes away. 

I love that the organization of the church gives me more opportunities to serve in big and small ways. As I serve, I form strong relationships with others that help lift me. 

In general conference in October, Dallin H. Oaks talked about the need for a church. I reflected on the blessings he mentioned and how I see them in my life. I love that I can progress through my church activity. I'm grateful to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.