The Sabbath is a Delight

We have had some recent family discussion about the Sabbath day. I think we all need to constantly examine our observance of His holy day. I've learned that keeping the Sabbath day holy is not just a matter of what we shouldn't be doing, but what we can be doing. In our family, I'm always asking myself--How can we improve our devotion? Is the Sabbath a delight to our souls? Is it a rest from the world?

President Eyring's stated, "For Latter-day Saints the Sabbath day is a day of gratitude and love." This helps me focus more on the purpose of the day.

I pulled out the Sunday CANs can so the children could review some good Sabbath options.

Later this evening I read Elder Russell M. Nelson's 2015 conference talk, The Sabbath is a Delight:

"How do we hallow the Sabbath day? In my much younger years, I studied the work of others who had compiled lists of things to do and things not to do on the Sabbath. It wasn’t until later that I learned from the scriptures that my conduct and my attitude on the Sabbath constituted a sign between me and my Heavenly Father. With that understanding, I no longer needed lists of dos and don’ts. When I had to make a decision whether or not an activity was appropriate for the Sabbath, I simply asked myself, “What sign do I want to give to God?” That question made my choices about the Sabbath day crystal clear. "

He goes on to share some scriptures describing great blessings of keeping the Sabbath day holy. I have always loved the promise that keeping the Sabbath holy will keep us unspotted from the world. Another one I hadn't thought much before was "the fulness of the earth is promised to those who keep the Sabbath day holy".

Elder Nelson continued, "How can you ensure that your behavior on the Sabbath will lead to joy and rejoicing? In addition to your going to church, partaking of the sacrament, and being diligent in your specific call to serve, what other activities would help to make the Sabbath a delight for you? What sign will you give to the Lord to show your love for Him?"

Teaching the gospel to our children and strengthening family ties were some ways he suggested would make the Sabbath become a delight in our home. This morning we decided to watch the animated story of Nephi retrieving the brass plates. Just a few hours later in sharing time the kids acted out the same story we had reviewed. Cameron was beyond thrilled that we had just watched it earlier that morning. 

As a parent, his happy heart and sweet connection made His day feel so delightful. Because the most essential work of any parent is to turn their children's hearts to our Father in Heaven. 

And in so doing, turn our hearts to Him as well, with love and gratitude.