Life can be challenging. The older I get the more this fact is etched into my mind. We never know what trials will come into our lives, but they will come and this life was meant to be a test. But it's all for our learning and benefit. In light of some recent trials I have been overwhelmed lately with love for my Savior, Jesus Christ. He literally saved all of humanity. Each and every one of us are children of our Heavenly Father, whether we know it or not. And whether we know it or not, this entire universe was created for us, and Jesus Christ was born for us, and he lived for us. He suffered for ALL of our sins, our pains, our afflictions, and our griefs, and then he died for us. And on the third day he rose again, for us. He was our perfect example, and he did it all because he loves us. And now we can be like him someday. All that is required of us is that we covenant to live by his laws, be faithful, and endure to the end.What beautiful assurance these things bring to me in this world of strife. It's all about love. He loves us and knows us better than we know and love ourselves. And he wants us to succeed and return to him. We are his. The problem is that there are those that want us to forget this fact, and to become mired in the things of this world and in our own pride, and forget that we belong to our God who grants us the very air we breathe. And these days it might seem like "they" are winning. But I KNOW that when all is said and done Christ will win the ultimate victory, and those found to be on his side will win with him. That assurance brings me great peace, and I hope that when the time comes he will look into my heart and see that I am enough like him that I will be worthy to return home.
This video is absolutely stirring. The Mormon Tabernacle Choir is simply flawless here in their beautiful rendition of "I'm Trying to Be Like Jesus." The beginning, where 180 men sing in unison: "At times I am tempted to make a wrong choice, but I try to listen as the still small voice whispers, 'love one another as Jesus loves you'" — it brings tears to my eyes. Amazing and gorgeous. Listen, and enjoy.
"Have you received his image in your countenance? Does the light of Christ shine in your eyes? Will he know you when he comes again because you will be like him? When he sees you, will the father know his child by his everlasting image in your eyes?" —Janice Kapp Perry
