Each year I learn more about the real reason for this season. This year I have made it a priority to focus on the Savior and strive to understand his sacrifice more fully. I feel that I usually get sentimental and emotional for one moment and then the next all I'm thinking about it my Cadburry eggs and the ham and funeral potatoes in the oven. As good as those things are the thing that is truly important is the sacrifice of our elder brother and Redeemer, even Jesus Christ. I have a few quick thoughts I have come to throughout my study of his life during this last week.
First, if you haven't read this talk by President Monson stop reading this and study it.
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2010/04/he-is-risen?lang=eng
Now that you have read this talk think with me for a moment. The Savior was born in a stable. He was surrounded by dirty animals. His bed was a manager which google defines as "A long open box or trough for horses or cattle to eat from." He was scourged whipped, betrayed by his friends, doubted, conspired against, and beat. Name something you are struggling with or suffering from and the Lord of Hosts has been there. He knows. He understands. After his death he was even laid in a borrowed tomb. From His birth there was never a place for the Savior to call his own. He was rejected by his own people. Do we do the same?
One of my favorite songs at Christmas time is "Do you have room for the Savior?" At this joyous Easter time where we proudly declare that the "Christ the Lord is Risen Today," "He lives!" and "I know the my Redeemer Lives" can we seek to incorporate these beliefs into our very being. Can we find room in our hearts and daily lives for the Savior. Can we seek to follow his spirit, serve and uplift others, study his words, and be more like him in all that we do? Can we seek to engrave his countenance upon our own? I believe if we do so the Easter season will truly begin to come alive and form a much deeper meaning for us. I know I have been moved as I put the Savior first in my day by studying his words. When I do so I am touched and strengthened. I renew my sense of hope and optimism.
Seek the Savior and learn of him. He is my rock and my salvation. I cannot express my love, reverance, respect, admiration, and gratitude regarding his sacrifice, example, and continual outpouring of love in my behalf. I love my Savior and know that His gospel is restored on this earth today.
I know that my Redeemer lives.
3 comments:
Thanks Melissa for the beautiful message of our Savior and for the wonderful person you are. This made my day. I am so happy for you and Jay:). And I can see by pictures posted on Facebook..that you both love each other a lot. And ...that makes me so happy and blessed. Your testimony is great and I so appreciated reading the beautiful Easter message. Love, Grandma Line-Jones:).
Thank you for sharing your testimony. Its difficult to comprehend happiness and the meaning of life without understanding why He chose to atone and die for our sins. I cant wait for his second coming.
Thanks for this message Melissa, it puts everything in perspective! Hope everything is going well for the newlyweds :)
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