Light The World: Invite someone to church

Sometimes  we get a little worked up when we try to invite someone to a church activity. It's really not that big of a deal — it only feels  that way.

My wife and I were debating how to invite our neighbors a few years ago. We had a little goodie bag all ready to take with us. While we talked about it, our Primary-aged son took it over and did it.

Lesson learned.

Go ahead and invite someone to come to church next week. The worst that could happen is that they would say no thank you... and still be your friend!

Light the World: One on one

I think it's awesome that no matter how big the world is, the Lord knows us individually. It's all one on one.

Light the World: Thank a teacher

I had so many wonderful teachers growing up — both at church and at school — that's it's hard to narrow down the list of those who inspired me the most.

In elementary school, there was Miss Speck, Miss Lund and Miss Jarvis (she wore hot pants) who stand out as examples of amazing teachers. In middle school there were Mr. Fernley, Mme Chapman, Mrs. Sorenson and Mr. Chatterton who stood out (among many). In high school it was Mr. Lee, Mrs. Thayne, Ma Baskin, Miss Woodward, Coach Bennion and Mrs. Springer.

When I think of teachers and advisors in church, there are so many! Sis. Windley in Cub Scouts and Primary, Bro. Leishman, Bro. Jeppson, Bishop Kehl, Bishop Mills and Pres. Bangerter, just to name a few.

My favorite teachers, of course, were Mr. and Mrs. Beckstrom, and my current French teacher, Mme Beckstrom — she is amazing!

A huge shout out to all my teachers! They all gave so much of themselves and encouraged me along the way. Bless you all!

Light the World: Share your talents

"Interpret how you feel about Jesus Christ by creating art, a song, a poem or some other creative outlet, and share it with a friend or a loved one," is today's #LightTheWorld suggestion.

Just don't be obnoxious about it. :)

Light the World: Pick up the phone

Call your parents today and let them know of your love for them.

That doesn't work for everyone, I know. My parents have passed on, so I'm going to write a letter for my journal about my parents instead.

Others may come from situations that were perhaps a little more rough. There's someone you can think of who acted as a mentor or played a parental role.

And there's always our Heavenly Father. You can give that a try!

Light the World: Show up in support

Have you ever been nervous before you perform on stage, participate n an athletic event or play an instrument? There's a certain feeling of comfort when you recognize friendly faces as you look out over the audience.

Today, support someone in their performance. Cheer for them, clap for them, pray for them.

You know, it could even be yourself that you cheer for. Give yourself some positive self-talk. You deserve it!

Light the World: Ornament exchange

"Think of a close friend or family member," reads today's Light the World prompt. "Invite them to do an ornament swap, so you have something to represent each other in your respective homes."

There's something nostalgic about pulling out the Christmas ornaments each year.

My mom had pink glass ornaments that we decorated the tree with every year. Most were smooth, round and delicate. There was one that was oversized and was covered with all kinds of silver baubles. It went on the top of the tree, just below the star.

The kids usually made ornaments in Primary or at school, often using a photo of themselves (like in the cartoon).

So many ornaments come with stories, it's often like a family history project decorating the tree.