My resolution for this month is to "exercise more faith in the redemption of Jesus Christ". (Alma 5:15-18)
As I thought about this resolution, I was preparing an introductory post similar to what I normally do at the beginning of each month - a look at the actual definition of the term and a description of my initial thoughts concerning that definition, but as I sat down to write this post I had a strong feeling to take a totally different approach tonight. So . . .
As a launching pad for the rest of my posts this month, I simply would like to ask those who read this post to share their thoughts about "the redemption". I don't want to put ANY parameters or restrictions on the input. I don't mind orthodox, heterodox or even non-Mormon and non-Christian perspectives. I just want input on what "the redemption of Jesus Christ" means to you.
Cries and Dolls
3 weeks ago
8 comments:
The older I get, the more multi-faceted and almost incomprehensible His redemption is to me. While there is much about life that is wonderful, there is also much that is simply broken by reason of our mortality. And much of that we cannot fix. There is much of injustice and suffering. There is much of weakness that simply cannot be overcome by willpower alone. There is much of separation and struggle in human relationships. There is illness and death, sin and mistakes and errors of judgment -- sins of omission and commission.
There is so much that needs to be swallowed up and can only be by Christ.
I also think about the fact that we had faith in Him even before we came to this earth -- that He was that trustworthy then that we were willing to put our all on Him -- knowing that He would not fail us.
He will not fail us. It makes me want to do more to not fail in my faith in Him.
I stand all amazed.
Redemption to me is Jesus' great accomplishment of being exactly what I'd hoped He would be. Perfect, and willing. I imagine before I came to earth it was my biggest risk - the willingness to hope that He would not disappoint me and leave me homeless and condemned for all of eternity. Redemption is the realization of hope, and the finisher of my faith.
Thank you, michelle and Shelli. I will ponder your comments as I prepare next week's post.
Fundamentally, all gospel teachings and activities are centered on coming unto Christ by receiving the Holy Ghost in our lives.
Jared, just for clarification, are you saying that receiving the Holy Ghost is the full manifestation of the exercise of faith in the redemption of Jesus? (and I don't mean being told "receive the Holy Ghost" in a confirmation ordinance. I mean truly receiving the Holy Ghost.)
I know your single-minded focus on receiving the Holy Ghost (and I don't mean that in ANY derogatory way), but I just want to make sure I am reading your comment as you meant it.
Ray,
I've been looking for quotes from the prophets that explain what the most important objective members should focus on while in mortality.
At first, I thought it would be to "come unto Christ", but the more I study the more I realize that acquiring the Holy Ghost is a more immediate objective; a prerequisite.
Joseph Smith taught about the first and second comforters. As you know the first comforter is the Holy Ghost, the second is Jesus Christ (D&C 93:1). Apparently, there is an order to coming to Christ.
When I wrote: "Fundamentally, all gospel teachings and activities are centered on coming unto Christ by receiving the Holy Ghost in our lives", I should have noted that this is a quote from Elder Bednar's most recent conference talk (link below).
Your post is about thoughts on the redemption of Jesus Christ. Seeking diligently for the Holy Ghost is essential for our redemption in Christ. This is my point.
http://lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/receive-the-holy-ghost?lang=eng
Thank you, Jared. I thought that was the case, but I wanted to make sure.
Redemption, to me, is knowing that not only is Christ perfect and did what He said He would for me, but that He also makes it possible for me to do what I've said I will, especially when I've agreed to do things that I can't do on my own, and that I'll one day share in His perfection.
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