Many of us never take time to really think of Christ from a broader perspective than the routine and common. We know Him through Old Testament prophecy and think of Him as the one who was born of Mary, she who was His virgin mother. We may even think of the shepherds and the wise men coming to see the blessed child in Bethlehem. We read of his youth and how he taught the elders in the temple. How he had to be about His Father’s business. We can try to understand how he suffered on the cross. We may try to contemplate where He is now and what it might be like there. Rather than think of Him as a figure from the long ago who dwelled on the earth and performed miracles etc., can we try thinking of Him in terms of what He has done for us, for me, and what our possibilities are because of what He was willing to do in our behalf ? On Easter past, my daughter Joy wrote this about Him: “I know that my Redeemer lives. I love Him with all my heart. I know that because of Him I can be my best self. I am so grateful for His life, His sacrifice and atonement, and His resurrection. He is the Son of God, and my brother.” I could not express my feelings and thoughts any better, but I want to enumerate in my mind and spirit what this Brother of mine has done for me and for you as well.
Because of Him, I am, I have life and am here experiencing this beautiful world that He created for this very purpose.
Because of Him, I understand charity or His pure love, and I can share that love with others.
Because of Him, I Have tender moments where I can feel one with the Father and with my fellow sojourners.
Because of Him, I have the scriptures to guide me through life and to uplift and inspire me.
Because of Him, I can experience new beginnings. I can wipe my slate clean and start over. I have made many false starts, and He has given me seventy times seven to get it right.
Because of Him, I understand my obligation to family and to others to help them along the way, to carry another if I must.
Because of Him, I will not only experience this life, but I am aware of another through the great plan of progression. There I know that I will be able to continue my quest for perfection, the perfection that He will one day ask me to account for.
Because of Him, I understand the importance of my family, not only my close and dear family but all the thousands that I have descended from, those whose genes or DNA run through my arteries and veins and make up my very being.
Because of Him, truth has been my guide and has made me free—free from the shackles of ignorance and darkness.
Because of Him, there is hope—hope of life after mortal death and hope that my life will be eternal and in a world where I may be able to associate with Him.
Because of Him, I will always be in the light even when darkness is all around me. When the storm clouds gather and lightning strikes all around me, I will still be in His light, and I will still feel His love and tender care. Because of Him, I will strive to be a light onto others.