Today in sacrament meeting, I was deeply engaged in resolving an issue at work via my phone. I know, I probably should not have been doing that. I can’t even say I handled the situation well.
As I furiously typed, one of the counselors got up and started to speak. He said, “We are now going to prepare for the sacrament.” I could hear him as he spoke but gave it little attention.
Then he paused. I looked up. He went on to tell us that the bishop had asked us to pause what we are doing and think of the Savior—think of Him and all He has done for you.
I could feel the Holy Spirit warm my heart as he spoke. I could hear a hush fall over the congregation. The sacrament hymn began to play, and I continued to feel the warmth of the Spirit.
#172 In Humility, Our Savior
1. In humility, our Savior,
Grant thy Spirit here, we pray,
As we bless the bread and water
In thy name this holy day.
Let me not forget, O Savior,
Thou didst bleed and die for me
When thy heart was stilled and broken
On the cross at Calvary.
2. Fill our hearts with sweet forgiving;
Teach us tolerance and love.
Let our prayers find access to thee
In thy holy courts above
Then, when we have proven worthy
Of thy sacrifice divine,
Lord, let us regain thy presence;
Let thy glory round us shine.
text: Mabel Jones Gabbott,. 1910-2024 © 1948 IRI
Music: Rowland H. Prichard, 1811–1887
2 Nephi 2:7
Doctrine and Covenants 59:9
As I listened, I thought of all my current trials. Honestly, they didn’t feel that big at the moment, as those notes were played. The words passed through my mind and my heart. I put down my phone and picked up a hymnal. I found the song and let those words pass through my lips.
I only sang the second verse, but it was beautiful. “Fill our hearts with sweet forgiving; Teach us tolerance and love.” Boy, do I need that. My heart has struggled, and I know in that struggle that my heart must always be forgiving.
“Let our prayers find access to thee, in thy holy courts above.” Isn’t it true that, in our greatest time of need, we cry to Heaven, hoping God will hear our prayers? That He has time to hear us in our weakness and meager state. Please, God, turn Your ear and hear my cry.
Anyhow, I hope God hears my prayer. I hope He hears yours. I hope that I will think of Him more, especially in those moments when I am alone and able to listen for His Holy Spirit.
There are so many things in the world trying to command our attention. Make the choice to give Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost your attention. Think of Him.