Thoughts on Charity!

The last few years I have really been pondering "Charity", trying more diligently to understand what it really means and the long-term effects that it creates on others. And I decided to share some of my thoughts and feelings on the subject, even though I have soooooooooooooooooooo much to learn and sooooooooooooooooooooooooo much to practice. I'm more or less looking at it from a parental point of view in this blog, but I am so sure you could apply it in any other setting.

We are told in the scriptures, "Charity is the pure love of Christ!". We hear it, know it, see it, and preach it, but really how does it feel, how does one get it, and how come it gets so confusing???? Because it is Christ's way, it is Christ and it is the right way. And His ways are not our ways, so hence it takes lots of hard work, plus it is not innate in us, but must be energetically sought after through fervent prayer and by following Jesus Christ completely. In essence, we must want it and do what is necessary to receive it. It is then given to us by God. Usually, we receive this gift in the same degree that our own lives are conforming to Christ's. Please do not confuse charity with giving or generosity, because it isn't the same. Only a small portion of it. It is line upon line, precept upon precept kind of thing. And it takes years of living and experiencing that you even come close to realizing what it must mean to a very small degree, mind you!

What is the pure love of Christ? It seems to be a completely selfless motivation to help others. It is possessing the attributes of long-suffering (patience in learning and patience in teaching), kindness, humility, righteousness, patience, truth-seeking, benevolent, and hope among others. These traits are found in parents who are striving to love their adult children with "pure love of Christ". And parents develop that love as they attempt to manifest these attributes in their relationships with their children.

So take a look at where you're coming from, the Savior's way is the only one that ultimately works, His motivation is love, and His technique is invitation.

So so much to learn, so so much to practice!!!
But His trust is in us, He knew we could do it and overcome this world if we will but follow Him!!