Fast Sunday

 Today we woke to the morning light and faint sounds of bird song. We quietly went about our morning, visiting and snuggling beneath blankets until the whole house awoke. Daddy reverently prepared the sacrament, the big boys lugged in all of the kitchen chairs for our church meeting, and then the littles gathered in the play room and got lost in a game of make-believe. 

 It is our third week doing church at home as we aren't allowed to meet as a large congregation due to the worldwide pandemic that has put a halt to so many things. Every Sunday as I gather with my family in our little living room I feel blessed to know that we have a prophet here on earth who has prepared us so well for this moment in time. Recently our prophet asked us to join him in a worldwide fast for relief and healing.

“I invite you to join with me in a worldwide fast—for all whose health permits—to pray for relief from the physical, emotional and economic effects of this global pandemic. I invite members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints everywhere, along with our many friends, to fast and pray this Sunday, March 29. Let us unite our faith to plead for physical, spiritual, and other healing throughout the entire world. The Lord understands the feelings you are experiencing. He loves and cares for you, as I do, too.” ~Russel M. Nelson

 When the house was relatively still, I slipped out the back door and walked to the big spruce trees at the property line. They were all covered with frost, but the view from the house wasn't nearly as magical as the view from the other side. I drank in the fresh air and said a quiet prayer in my heart for those who are suffering or in need of peace at this time. 

As we gathered together for fast and testimony meeting in our tiny living room, I couldn't help but feel peace and assurance that everything will work out. As our children each took turns sharing their thoughts and testimonies about the love that Jesus has for them, the blessings of the atonement, and the joy of eternal families, my heart was full. I know that we have a Heavenly Father who knows us personally and loves each of us with a great love. I know that he has a plan for us and that we are blessed as we follow Him. And even though the world seems a little bit upside down right now, He is near and waiting to comfort and help us. 

"When there's no peace on earth, there is peace in Christ."