It has been a really long weekend.  Holidays usually are.  But when there is a designated period of time (Thanksgiving weekend – 4 whole days) it seems like we are required to keep busy during this time.  It's okay…I prefer to be busy, but sometimes that leaves me just a little tired and wishing that I could get that Sunday afternoon nap.  It occasionally happens, but not often enough.  I kind of feel guilty when I do, but always more rested, so I have to weigh that guilt against my sense of well-being!  I guess it isn't something to waste a lot of sleep over!

 
But that brings me to the scripture for today.  Our lessons in Gospel Doctrine are always so timely.  One of the scriptures we talked about was in Doctrine and Covenants 58:26 - 

For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward.

Our Heavenly Father doesn't want to have to always tell us every little or big thing that we should become involved in.  Sometimes we do things because we are commanded, but isn't it better to take initiative and do good ourselves?  I know that that if I ask someone to do the dishes, that it will get done.  But what a delight it is if the dishes get done without me having to ask!  This is such a simple task, with momentary joy.  Imagine taking initiative in something of eternal consequence! 

In the next verse we read:

27 Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness.

Anxiously engaged in a good cause!  This sounds like we should do more than be casually associated with good causes…maybe cheerfully, happily, excited in doing good things, helping with lots of energy those causes that will be of great consequence not only to our family and friends, but those that need their burdens lightened.  I'd say that the time to bring about much righteousness is now!  Heavenly Father doesn't expect us to run faster or longer than we are able.  But He will support us as we try to "bring to pass much righteousness".  There is certainly much that needs to be done!