Well, another progression of LDS General Conference has finished. As always, numerous messages were inspirational and uplifting. I had the privilege of spending most of this weekend with a good friend of mine that has had a rough life, but is trying his hardest to be better and was watching conference with questions he anticipated answers to. I admire his preparation. I've admire his dedication to daily scripture study. He recently began attending Institute with me. However, he's been facing a lot of hard times from various sources. I was so happy and a little jealous as I sat and spoke with him about his experience watching conference this weekend. We were doing homework most of the time, but we always had our ears and minds directed at the messages being delivered. He received so much revelation and guidance for his life. I am so proud of him and hope he continues to act on both the chastisement and encouragement he received from our great leaders.
As always, many spoke on the sacrifice of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Today being Easter, everyone's thoughts and hearts were turned to the garden, the hill, and the empty tomb. Often we look back 2000 years ago and remember the miracles Christ performed. A teacher in a Sunday School class I attended asked a question I felt was inspired. He asked which of Christ's miracles we would like to see. Some wished to see the raising of Jairus' daughter. Others would have liked to see him feed the 5000 (they just wanted free food...). As I thought about it, all of those miracles were amazing and hold so much power behind all of them. But as I continued to ponder on what miracle I would want to see, I realized that the miracle closest to me that I hope to one day experience is the miracle of my own salvation. When I reflect on Easter, I don't reflect back 2000 years ago, but 20 years ago. I think back on how far I've come. Obviously I've grown about 6 feet since then, but I've also experienced countless events that have shaped my life into what it is now. I have nothing but thanks for all the help I have received. Maybe a little guilt and shame for the stupid things I've done...and occasionally continue to do. But, I know because of Christ's atonement, I can be clean from that.
On this Easter Sunday and every one following, let us remember our Savior. But, let us also remember that we, too, can become perfect. We, too, can be clean and be resurrected. We, too, can live with our families forever.
Because he lives.
