Gave a little training about sharing the scriptures with others in a little missionary conference. I have such a testimony in The Holy Bible, The Book of Mormon, and the rest of the Standard works. I know they are the word of God to His children. Not only are they foundational in my faith and conversion but they have the profound ability to "heal the wounded soul." Sharing such healing with those I love is one of my favorite parts of this work.
I met a marvelous family from India who practice Hinduism but invited us into their home to share our message about the restoration of Christ's church. As we discussed what it means to be truly good, they taught me so much about what it means to be a disciple and my faith
was greatly increased.
We had interviews with President Smith. I am in awe of that man. He simply radiates the light and love of Jesus Christ. Though we are commanded to be perfect even as the Savior is perfect, it can often feel like a tall order. I am grateful for the righteous people in my life who I can look to for an example of one trying to be like Jesus. It is invigorating and encouraging to see other imperfect people succeeding in emulating in some small part the perfection of the Son of Man.
On the Sabbath we studied the Psalms, which according to the Bible Dictionary, "breathe the highest spirit of prayer." I was particularly struck by David's poetic and raw petition for mercy from the Lord. As I pondered upon this man stricken by the grief and even agony of his own mistakes, my appreciation for the gift of repentance and the Lord's perfect mercy grew.
We are taught, "Repentance is one of the first principles of the gospel and is essential to our temporal and eternal happiness. It is much more than just acknowledging wrongdoings. It is a change of mind and heart that gives us a fresh view about God, about ourselves, and about the world."
To repent is to change. I know that as we show Christ our desire to be better He will help us become better. I know that in His redemptive might He will fix those mistakes that to us are unfixable. And I know that most importantly He will heal us of our deepest guilt and shame to help us find relief and true joy. He cries to us all, "...Will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may heal you?"
The Master Physician is waiting, even now, to heal us. But He will not force us to be healed if we choose not to let him. To repent, to change, to accept Christ's perfect help takes great humility.
The greatest joy of my life thus far has been experiencing the joy of daily repentance and the soothe that comes from The Balm of Gilead. I know and bear witness that all can partake of this same joy.
"Behold, this is joy which none receiveth save it be the truly penitent and humble seeker of happiness."
Enjoy a couple songs for me,
Growing/Dying–The Backseat Lovers
More Life (clean version ofc)–Cordae
The General–Dispatch
I sure do love you all. I pray you're living the dream. If not, keep chasing.
Elder Winegar
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