January - 2008 !

I just wanted to remind you that the Spirit of Christmas can always be with you, not just on Christmas, but also during the NEW YEAR! Your homes can always have that joyful feeling- If (and it's a big IF), we do things that invite the Spirit. My Mother taught me that a home can be a heaven or that other place. . . it all depends on you!
The Spirit (The Holy Ghost) is constantly sending signals and "whispering" messages to us (usually through it's "still smsll voice".)
In order to invite the spirit in, we have to make a concience effort to do certain things. I'm sure it's similar to turning on the television. The messages or signals are there, but we have to do something to open it up and then choose well!

We are bomarded constantly with the messages of the world, and don't have to make much of an effort to allow those signals in. However, it takes some work to keep the channel of spirituality or revelation on. (Can you imagine trying to explain the internet or the radio to a pioneer?) I am positive it will be an eye opening experience someday for all of us when we die, of how simple the process of prayer is, and yet how powerful those waves are? Anyway, someday we will all understand that great system organized by God. But, until then, we walk by faith.

We develop faith as we make decisions. The faithful, are full of faith because of the acts they do. Sometimes we are promted to give a smile, say a kind word, or lend a helping hand. If we act on those promtings, our faith grows, and we are blessed as others are helped. In other words, as we hear, we need to act. Faith without works is dead! We have all heard the phrase "nothing good comes easy". But, it's really not that hard to develop faith. Faith is not just a feeling, it's a decision!

When we strive to do what's right, and follow the inspiration given to us, we will know that the spirit is working through us, and is leading and guiding us to not only help us make good decisions, but to help and lift others as well.  Trying to describe all this in words is sometimes a difficult thing to do.  It's kind of like explaining the breeze as you open a window, or turn on a fan. It can't be seen, but you can sure feel it!

So, as you enjoy the New Year's Spirit, remember that it's Christ's Spirit that brings joy as we sacrifice for others. It is the spirit of the Lord that brings peace as we use self discipline. And, it is also the spirit that brings happiness as we decide to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ in it's purity and simplicity.

Get Noi-Z! Get involved and share your voice! Here are some ways:
- Go to The Osmond Family Blog Spot. (http://strengtheningfamilies.blogspot.com)
- The Family Forum. (http://thefamily.forumco.com/policy.asp)
- Know someone who has M.S. or other immune problems? )http://osmondms.com/)
- Checked our store lately? (http://www.thefamily.com/store/shop/)

As you consider a candidate you would like to vote for in the up-coming election, remember someone who will help to "strengthen The Family!" It fixes a whole lot of problems in our World!