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Nihla Judd - Winchester Hills 2nd Ward

When I first read Bishop Davies conference talk, my mind raced with visions of what it meant to “worship”. I imagined Catholic nuns lying for hours face down on cold stone floors beneath idols of Christ on the crucifix or Muslins rolling out their prayer rugs.

We don’t do that.  So what does it mean to worship?  Bishop Davies pointed out a great example in 3^rd Nephi: “the people twice fell at His feet”….they “did worship.”5

He explained “without [worship] we are missing an incomparable spiritual encounter with the infinite—one When I first listened to Bishop Davies conference talk we are entitled to as children of a loving…Father…  worship is essential & central to our spiritual life. It is something we should yearn for, seek & strive to experience.”

I have been “missing” out.  But Christ is not physically present.  I cannot fall at His feet.  What can I do?

Bishop Davies answered citing Joseph in the grove as a perfect example.

He lists key points:

·         approach Him with reverent love, humility, adoration.

·         acknowledge & accept Him as sovereign King…  Creator…Father.

·         respect & revere Him

·         submit to Him

·         rejoice in His grace

·         lift our hearts in prayer

·         cherish His word

·         follow Him with loyalty

·         invite light & truth

·         acknowledge & receive Him

·         approach Him with feelings of wonder & awe.

·         marvel in gratitude

·         ponder His word

He gave warnings:

·         “…if we fail to receive Him…we will seek for Him in vain in our councils, churches, & temples.”

·         if we fail to worship…we are missing…joy & peace.

He promises blessing for true worship:

·         transforms us into sincere & earnest disciples of our…Savior…. We…become more like Him.” (understanding, caring, forgiving, loving.)….It is impossible to say that we love God while…hating, dismissing, disregarding others around us.9

·         unwavering determination to walk the path of discipleship

·         hope

·         fills our souls with truth

·         comprehend spiritual vistas that can be seen only through the light of the Holy Ghost.10…

·          refined

·         open hearts to the healing power of the Atonement.

·         enriches lives, broadens understanding, strengthens testimonies.

·         gather heavenly light…fusing our lives with divine meaning, abiding peace, everlasting joy.

“…spiritual experiences have less to do with what is happening around us & everything to do with what is happening within….’’

I desire to be a “succulent, refreshing, hydrated garden with fragrant blossoms & nourishing fruit so that Christ will stroll through my soul when I worship.”

I am beginning my quest by working on the items  above.  Please come along with me.