Wednesday, March 19, 2008

He Lives!!

I know that so often on my blog I write about the goings on in my life. The crazy boyz I get set up with or just fun things.. I have realized that not too often do I take the time to express my testimony or gratitude for all that I have been blessed with. This month's edition of the Ensign has a picture of Christ, (which I thought extremely appropriate considering the season) so for the last few weeks I have been reading from the Ensign for my scripture study. I have really felt the Spirit closer this last little while and I am have found that I have been happier. I often times think of what my life would be like if I didn't have the gospel and the knowledge and comfort that it brings to my soul. I know that I couldn't be happy living any other way than how I am now. I hope that each one of you reading this at sometime has felt the hand of the Lord in your life or even better felt that warmth that comes when you know he is near. I have had several experiences where I have felt those loving arms around me quite literally and have known that he is our shepherd and we are indeed his sheep. I have no doubt that he knows each and every one of us by name and is constantly reaching towards us hoping that we will extend our arms and allow him into our lives. I am so grateful to have the priesthood in my home and for the peaceful feeling that it brings. I have been able to have my dad give me a blessing when I have been in need and I can not even begin to tell you the immense help that it has given me in helping me in all situations in my life, no matter how small and silly they seem.
This picture is titled" The Gentle Healer" I can't think of a more appropriate name for our Saviour. I think of his sacrifice and great love that he has for each of us. I know that at times I make so many mistakes.. Usually that I know better than to do, but the Lord has that unconditional love for me and I have felt that even in the midst of sin and trials. I also have an amazing family who has that same unconditional love. I feel truly blessed that I have had so much love and support in my life no matter what it was that I was doing!!
As I have traveled all over the world I am always in awe of the beauty that surrounds me. Like the nights when the moon is full and bright in the sky, or being in Brazil and seeing all of the green, lush countryside and thinking it looks like "paradise." I am grateful for the world we live in, for the freedom that I have to worship and live the way that I choose. I am grateful for those who have and continue to fight for my freedom. For those who have and do sacrifice for people who they will never meet, for those who have and had a vision of how life should be and are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their goal.

"It was in quiet grove it all began." I am grateful for Joseph Smith and his perserverance in restoring this gospel to the earth. I am also grateful for each of the prophets since then who have continued to lead and guide us and help us progress as the Lord sees fit. I am extremely grateful for President Hinckley and all of the many things he did for this church. I look forward to President Monson and what will come in his time. I know these are the last days and I pray that each of us will do all that we need to so that we may live with God again. I pray also that we may do all that we need to so that we may have him with us each day to help us to grow, and learn, and feel of his love and comfort. I know that when I do this, I am happier and life seems to go my way. Amen.


2 comments:

Shelly said...

That was very nice....you inspired me to read this months Ensign. I haven't read it all yet but so far I am enjoying it.

Rachael said...

Jessica. You look so great! Where did you serve your mission? I have been out of the loop for so long. Just wanted to say hi.