For The Year Ahead

I came across the video "I'm Trying To Be Like Jesus" by David Archuleta.  At first I was reluctant to listen, it's a children's song; I know it well; it's simple; I questioned what would he do to change it and I did not want the song altered for a grand stand performance.  I clicked play (if you haven't already, go ahead). It is a beautiful song.  It is simple yet profound in application of meaning.

I have been thinking about the new year and what I would like to accomplish.  I thought about working on being a better mother, spouse, friend, etc.  What it all comes down to for the new year is that I want to be more like Jesus.  I am not talking about becoming a fanatic about my religion but to apply these simple principles, found in the lyrics to this song, to my daily living:

"I'm Trying To Be Like Jesus"
1.  I’m trying to be like Jesus;
I’m following in his ways.
I’m trying to love as he did, in all that I do and say.
At times I am tempted to make a wrong choice,
But I try to listen as the still small voice whispers,

(Chorus)

2.  I’m trying to love my neighbor;
I’m learning to serve my friends.
I watch for the day of gladness when Jesus will come again.
I try to remember the lessons he taught.
Then the Holy Spirit enters into my thoughts, saying:

Chorus
“Love one another as Jesus loves you.
Try to show kindness in all that you do.
Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought,
For these are the things Jesus taught.”

(Words and music: Janice Kapp Perry, b. 1938)

For this year I will try to be more like Jesus and continue to learn to better serve my family, friends,  neighbors and the Lord.  This does not mean I beat myself up for falling short or demand more from others in spite of myself, but to love one another as Jesus loves me.

This past Monday we had a family home evening lesson about "What would Jesus do?".    This week, when my daughters have come to me with a problem with getting along with each other or others I have talked with them and explored the question, "What would Jesus do?".  As a result, I have responded to the situations more gently and with more kindness and the girls have been better able to resolve quarrels.  What a great start to the new year!