Doctrine and Covenants 45

I hope that the love I have for the Savior comes through in all my actions, lessons, writings and words. No doubt there are times when it does not, as imperfect as we are our minds forget, we become distracted, our moods change. But there are things I always try to do that help bring this goal back into perspective. Jesus provides the way back to where we need to be regardless of where we currently are. Repentance is change, and change is ever necessary.

I love Jesus. I have spent time learning about him, though I may still be comparatively young, much time of my life has been dedicated to His gospel. From seminary, missionary service, teaching Sunday School and years of striving to live it. What is it all for if not to get to know Him, to love Him and become more like Him?

My love for Jesus helps me fell empathy and humility, to listen more than I speak, to speak with meaning when the time comes. Life skills that pay dividends in many aspects of life, not least of which is to remain calm, reassured, when the sensationalism and death caused by a global pandemic disrupts our lives. Was not such prophesied (D&C 45:31)?

I love the scriptures, for in them I have found the words of life, from the Messenger of the Covenant (Mal. 3:1) who did suddenly come to his temple in these Latter Days, who also declared the building up of Zion, the New Jerusalem on the American continent (D&C 45:66).

I look forward to his coming, not just in anticipation of relief from the evil that overcomes the world but also for the great work of salvation that will be spread so rapidly.

Knowing Jesus, is the way to a meaningful life. Through prayer, fasting, study and faith. I want to keep his commandments not from a sense of obligation, or fear of retribution, but because in knowing he loves me in an incomprehensibly personal way also means he knows what is best for me. I desire to make the places in which I stand holy (D&C 45:32 Matt. 24: 15.

These youth get it, expressed boldly in its natural simplicity.