Closer to Christ with Riley

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints puts out a calendar each year with service ideas I love. It comes out each Christmas and goes through the Christmas season with service ideas for each day. Today's service idea is "Freely Give." It encourages us to give or serve at a local charity or a Giving Machine if you live near one. My sister's school is doing penny wars and collecting money for families in need that attend the school. A few coins make a difference and I was happy to give. What will you do today to light the world with love? (See lighttheworld.org and comeuntochrist.org for details on this month's service ideas.)

In my studies yesterday, there was a passage that stuck out to me. It said that "sin prevents [me] from living in [God's] presence." It didn't end there, however. It went on to say, "Through continuing repentance , [I] may obtain forgiveness and be cleansed of [my] sins by the power of the Holy Ghost. [I am] relieved of the burden of guilt and shame, and through Jesus Christ [I] become worthy to return to the presence of God." - Preach my Gospel [2018],  p. 51 This idea brings me hope and peace. I've made so many mistakes, but to know that they can all be made right and I can be forgiven is a great blessing. I know that God loves me and wants me to return to Him. I know that I will be able to live with Him someday. No matter what I do, He is willing to help me change as soon as I turn to Him. I know that this can be true for you too as you turn to Christ and truly repent.

The Spirit... - testifies and teaches of the truth of all things ( Moroni 10:5 ) - shows us all things what we should do ( 2 Nephi 32:5 ) - comforts and teaches and reminds us of what Christ has said ( John 14:26 ) - enlightens the mind ( Doctrine and Covenants 6:15 ) - speaks peace to our souls ( Doctrine and Covenants 6:23 )

I am thankful for the knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Without it, I would have little hope for the mistakes I've made. With it, I know I can change, and I've felt hope and God's love for me. See  3 Nephi 10:6 .