By Stassi Cramm, member of the First Presidency
The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
With a busy life, I have to be creative in making space for reflection. Sometimes I use my time in the shower to reflect. I picture God’s blessings flowing into my life as I stand under the running water. I take a moment to give thanks and my gratitude leads to a better attitude all day. Some of my best ideas come to me in the shower.
When I am spending significant time on airplanes, I use the time during takeoff and landing when you must stow your laptop as my reflection time. In those times, I make space for the Holy Spirit to guide my thoughts.
Even after a long trip, those moments of quiet in the crowded airplane provided renewal and gratitude.
When I’m having a bad day, my husband always asks me what one good thing happened that day. Often it feels annoying. However, the truth is that even if I grumble and do not respond, his question causes me to reflect and recognize at least one good thing. Every time, this exchange brings a glimmer of light into even my darkest day.
You can make room for intentional reflection in your life in countless ways. Look for spiritual practices that fit into your daily routine, so reflection becomes part of your natural rhythm.
God’s love is unconditional and flows without end. Sometimes we need to search to find it. Other times, we are overcome by its presence in our life. The discipline of reflection keeps us connected and focused on the One we follow. Our reflection shapes how we choose to live our life each day and leads to faithful whole-life stewardship.
How will you be intentional about incorporating reflection into your daily life?
Prayer Phrase
“giving thanks to God…at all times and for everything” (Ephesians 5:20)
Spiritual Practice
Practice Gratitude
[Adapted from A 7-Day Guide to Gratitude by Diana Butler Bass]
Often, we feel we have to escape from everyday life to embrace the mysteries and blessings of God. But we don’t need to go far, we can look inside ourselves. The greatest gift is the one we most often take for granted: that we are alive. Take ten minutes today for silence. Sit somewhere you will not be disturbed and set a timer. Reflect on the words, “I am. We all are.”
What happened in the silence?
Did a sense of gratitude emerge in this exercise?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.