From "What?" to Glorious

For the most part this blog has become a place where I record our "family fun"...a piece of our family history. But occasionally I like to share some of the things that move or inspire me. In our last General Conference, Elder Scott taught about "The Power of Scripture". I loved this analogy he shared:

"Great power can come from memorizing scriptures. To memorize a scripture is to forge a new friendship. It is like discovering a new individual who can help in time of need, give inspiration and comfort, and be a source of motivation for needed change."

I am so grateful for good friends. They motivate, teach, love, care for and inspire me. They make my life much more happy and full. Does memorizing a scripture passage do the same?

Jared and I decided that we would like to start memorizing scriptures together and to have our children do the same. I figured that I would start with the one that Elder Scott quoted next in his sermon:

"For example, committing to memory this psalm has been for me a source of power and understanding:

“The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.

“For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods.

“Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place?

“He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.

“He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation” (Psalm 24:1–5)."

I have to admit, the first time, in fact, the first several times, I read this I thought "What? I don't get it. Why is this a 'source of power and understanding' to him?" But I began to memorize anyway. As I looked at each verse, each phrase, each word, to commit it to memory I felt my soul enlightened and began to understand. I saw power in each one. As I repeated the passage over and over, it's meaning became clearer and clearer. Now it truly has become a friend, a source of power and understanding for which I am truly grateful. And I am grateful for modern-day prophets and the guidance they give us that helps us individually draw closer to God and feel His influence in our lives.