Tonight we had our Family Home Evening with another family in our Stake. We have seen each other at many stake events, been friends on Facebook for awhile, but never really gotten to know each other in person before. So, we got together for FHE. They provided the pool, fruit salad, a fire pit and s'mores, and we provided the cookies, and the lesson.
I told the story of Samuel the Lamanite, from the Book of Mormon. We talked about him climbing on the wall to give the news of the coming of Jesus' birth, and about the new star, and how they needed to repent or face destruction. We talked about how some people believed, but most did not, and some even tried to kill him with the bows and arrows. We then discussed how they could not hit him, as the Lord was protecting him. I made the point that the Lord is always with us when we do as He commands. He will watch over us, help us, and even spare our life if that is necessary for us to carry out His will. (As I was sharing a recap with my oldest son later on, he remarked that it was the same lesson we learn from Nephi. "And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I awill go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no bcommandments unto the children of men, save he shall cprepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them.")
Afterwards, we had the kids make little bows and arrows that they could keep to remind them that the Lord is always there for them as they strive to follow and serve Him. They were made out of popsicle sticks, dental floss, and q-tips. We got the idea from The Brooding Hen (http://thebroodinghen.blogspot.com/2010/06/tiny-bow-arrow.html). They really did work!!! The kids had a blast shooting each other with them. I ended up making an extra one for my husband for his desk at Church. I think I will find a really nice scripture to go with it, and make a nice little display for him to have.
Overall, I think it was a great night! It is so much fun to fellowship with other members, and get to know them in thier homes. We also got to pass on our secret to making awesome s'mores. (Use chocolate chip cookies instead of graham cookies!!). Hope you had a good FHE too!!! Now I need to find another great idea for one in a few weeks with a few families at our house.
