Last night I was hanging out on my church's website. This being Holy Week or the week before Jesus Christ was crucified, entombed and rose from the dead, there was a worksheet available to record "Greater Love" for each day of the week. Being curious, I downloaded the journal-like worksheet and attempted to complete the journal for Palm Sunday.
The question asked was: "What did you feel as you prayed to know how your Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ feel about you? What does this feeling motivate you to do for others?"
I was caught very much off guard. True fact, I had never asked God or Christ their opinion of me before. I have prayed for people, places and things and to know God's will, but to ask for an opinion about me, it seems too prideful. I needed to take several attempts to just get the words out. Then it was also necessary to be calm and silent enough to allow for a response.
As I remained still, I experienced the following feelings.
My first feeling was one of being ok. Then as I continued to pray, had a strong feeling of love, acceptance and approval for the things I am doing, volunteer work, charity and loving my neighbor. There was a sense of acknowledgement and that I am on the right path.
The thought came that even though I had come a long way since getting sober, I still needed to preserver and complete the course.
I had the feeling that the room was just a little brighter. This seem strange since my eyes were closed and I am completely blind in one eye. Yet, I was experiencing this sensation with both eyes.
Finally, I felt a warmness. This sensation brought me physically to a level of tears. I retain that feeling a little even now.
The next request by the journal was to provide what motivations I may have through this experience.
This is what I have written:
This lesson inspires me to share it with others so they might gain the same feelings.
I am encouraged to do more service and show greater kindness than I have before.
I want to incorporate parts of this prayer into my daily prayers. Hopefully it will carry the same message of humility and sincerity as before.
"If there is a greater lesson here, it is this:
Our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ desire a loving, personal relationship with each of us — not just for today, but for all eternity.
All we need to do is ask, with an open heart and mind."
A side note: Recognizing Spiritual Experiences "Sometimes, spiritual experiences are quiet and unexpected, like this one. They are often marked by a deep sense of peace, love, and a gentle nudge toward goodness. They bring lasting feelings of hope, humility, and connection with God. A true spiritual experience will align with what we know of God's love and teachings. It will inspire us to be better, kinder, and more faithful. If you ever wonder whether a moment is spiritual, listen to your heart and soul — the Spirit testifies quietly but powerfully when we are touched by Heaven."
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