Grammie, Jichan, and Sendai

Sunday, April 23, 2023

This photo speaks volumes to me today. Though he probably doesn't realize it, Sayre is helping his Grandpa Allen get through a very sad and difficult day. As you all know, Jonathan's mom, Marietta passed away this week, and will be so missed. She was a creative lady, adventurous, smart, fun, and loved by so many. While some might have chosen to stay home and mourn, I love that Don chose to find solace in the Gospel, and in our Savior.

Our hearts are with the Allen family today ~ 💙

Nauvoo last summer

Family bike ride

Family reunion 2021

My thought for the week is from Elder Holland referring to the parable in which a householder went out early in the morning to hire labourers. The parable in found in Matthew 20, and the talk was given in General Conference, May 2012.

"This is a story about God's goodness, His patience and forgiveness, and the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a story about generosity and compassion. It is a story about grace. It underscores the thought that I heard many years ago that surely the thing God enjoys most about being God is the thrill of being merciful, especially to those who don't expect it and often feel they don't deserve it. I do not know who in this vast audience today may need to hear the message of forgiveness inherent in the parable, but however late you think you are, however many chances you think you have missed, however many mistakes you feel you have made or talents you think you don't have, or however far from home and family and God you feel you have traveled, I testify that you have not traveled beyond the reach of divine love. It is not possible for you to sink lower than the infinite light of Christ's Atonement shines".

Someone shared this in our addiction recovery class this week, and it just made me feel that the love the Savior has for us is greater that we can even imagine.

Photos that brought a smile to my face this week -