Closer to Christ with Riley

The Scripture This past week, I heard a scripture (3 Nephi 17:2-3) read at a reunion of church friends. In the scripture, Jesus visits the people in ancient America. He tells them He has to return to His Father but will be with them again the next day. That would have been amazing by itself, but on my way home I read further. Verses 5-7 read: And it came to pass that when Jesus had thus spoken, he cast his eyes round about again on the multitude, and beheld they were in tears, and did look steadfastly upon him as if they would ask him to tarry a little longer with them. And he said unto them: Behold, my bowels are filled with compassion towards you… My bowels are filled with mercy. This scripture says that the people wanted Jesus to stay longer. His response however, was what caught my attention. He said that His bowels were filled with compassion and mercy. Though I knew of compassion and mercy, I didn’t really understand them and wanted to go deeper. What is mercy? My Search I did a ...

I found another quote that hit home the other day, so I posted it. Recently as I’ve gone throughout my day, I have seen more evidence of God’s love. A few times, it’s been through quotes such as this. I make the silliest mistakes, yet afterwards, I feel God’s love. I know this quote from a prophet of God is true. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ do know you. They love you. Reach out in prayer and find their goodness. I know you will I testify in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Today being Christmas Day, I received some wonderful presents. They were all thoughtful, however, there were some gifts from a dear friend which helped me reflect on the reason for Christmas. These gifts were the most meaningful. They reminded me of my Savior's love for me. He Who is called the First Gift of Christmas was born and gave His life for me. My Savior loves me so much that He provided a way for me to fix my mistakes I've made, and heal the hurt I've felt. He loves me so much that He has helped me grow even though it hurts, for He knows it will make me better and more like Him. My Savior has given me His love in times of need. I have been truly blessed by getting to know my Savior better and reflecting on the true reason for Christmas. I invite you to do the same. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. See related scripture: John 15:13

Thursday, I watched it snow, I've been thinking about all of us as people. We are all God's children, each one a snowflake. As I watched the snow falling, I had a thought about how each person, like each snowflake, is unique. Not even a sparrow falls without God's notice. (See Matthew 10:29 ) God must know all the individual snowflakes. Surely He knows you  individually. I know He loves you more than anything. If you don't know this for yourself, I invite you to pray to God and ask Him if He loves you, and listen to the answer. He will answer you just as He has answered me.