Monday, February 13, 2012

Scripture that I Own



Here's another scripture that I feel I own.  I didn't acquire in the same way as some of the others.  This scripture isn't one that I earned through my own study.  It's not one I inherited from a family member.  This one is a gift from a friend and given in a very unusual way.  In fact,  she doesn't know she gave it to me.

Alma 18:35
35 And a portion of that Spirit dwelleth in me, which giveth me knowledge, and also power according to my faith and desires which are in God.

Probably 3 or more years ago I heard someone say a prayer and ask for a  "portion of the Spirit."   I don't think I had ever heard it expressed that way before, but I loved it.  That language supposes that there is plenty to go and can be divvied up.  It almost makes me think of the 'recommended daily allowance' on food packaging. 

I've been taught all my life that the reason the Holy Ghost doesn't have a body is so that we can feel his influence in our minds and our hearts and so that he can influence God's children all over the place.  So the term portion is perfect.  It's my little helping.  Or giant helping--after a fast.  Or the perfect complement to a beautiful song.  It's just super imagery to me.

I didn't know the phrase was scriptural at the time.  I just knew I liked it.  I've never forgotten it.  Since that time the woman has become a friend of mine.  Her name is Jane Holiday.  She's pretty wise.  When I read this verse and a few others which also include the unique phrase, I think of her and her prayer.  It's kind of great to have a personal connection to words of a prophet from many centuries ago.

No comments: