The Reason Temples Point Up

Tonight for family scripture study we were in Alma 37. Near the end of the chapter Alma teaches his son Helaman that the words of Christ are like a compass for our lives, directing us where to go. As we talked about what this meant we got into temples and discussed the role of the temple in guiding our direction and how they point us towards God. Trenton piped up and told us that the reason why the temples pointed up was because it is showing us that if we are going to the temple then we are going to God and going to live with God.

I thought that was a rather profound insight in symbolism for a 7 year old to give. I realized I am biased, but it hit me hard how awesome my kids are and how much they are examples to me. I was grateful for that small insight to remind me of the importance of the temple.

Each one of my kids has been an awesome example to me of important gospel principles that have helped point my life to God.

Trey has taught me forgiveness. He is my oldest and so I have messed up more with him than with any of my other kids. I am learning here... This is my first time being a dad and Trey is incredibly patient and forgiving. Even when I do things that are really dumb and get upset with him when I shouldn't, he is quick to forgive and I have really appreciated that.

Trenton has taught me the power of that internal radar that teaches us right from wrong known as the Holy Ghost. We don't have to tell him when he had done something wrong. He knows it and is very aware and constantly trying to be better and learn more. Watching him  has really helped me out.

Taft has taught me the power that a smile and a laugh can have. He can make a joke out of anything even if it isn't funny. His smile and laugh light up a room and lift everyone's spirits. He has truly blessed my life with his ability to just laugh at situations and make the best of them.

Corban has shown me the power of love. He is constantly telling Amber and I how much he loves us. "Bigger than the moon and back" or "bigger than our house" are common phrases he uses to describe his affections for us. How can that not make your day? I mean really?

Audrey has been teaching me the power of habits. We have been studying the Book of Mormon consistently as a family and so whenever we play the game Authors  (similar to go fish), she will grab some cards and then ask everyone if they have a Book of Mormon card. I think she recognizes what we do weary night and that her thoughts are a reflection of her recognition of something good, primarily in her.

Little Evelyn has been teaching me about the goodness of God. She is so sweet and so sensitive and she just reminds me about all that is right with the world. Her cute little smile brightens my day and she loves to cuddle like none of my other kids have. She just helps me to feel God's love and goodness every day.

I can't go without saying something about Amber. She is my everything. She is so patient and kind and forgiving... And patient... Especially with me. She is the most Christlike individual I know and never stops giving. When I want to try to become more like the Savior I will often think of Amber and her character because of how similar she is in so many ways. I don't claim she is perfect, I know that she has things that she is working on; but she is certainly perfect for me and such a perfect blessing in my life and the lives of our kids. She makes things work. We would be completely lost without her. 

God just gives us so much and gives us so many opportunities to learn and grow. It's truly incredible and reminds me to be still and recognize that He is God and He is in control and gives us every opportunity to come closer to Him and see His influence in our lives directly or through other people. God does live and is aware of each one of us. He loves us deeply and I know that because of what I see in my own family under my own roof!