The Prince of Peace

It has been 3.5 years since I stepped foot in the Holy Land. So many wonderful things have happened in my life upon returning home. I married my best friend of 6 years. Steven is the sweetest eternal companion a girl could ever hope for. On our two year anniversary we welcomed a sweet, perfect baby boy into our lives. I had honestly forgotten about this blog, and it is likely that the few who followed it have too, but I felt a desire to share some of the things that have been on my mind and heart. I am filled with gratitude for the mercies and blessings of the Lord.

As Easter is approaching, I have turned my thoughts back to my experiences in the Holy Land that gave me a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the Atonement and Resurrection of my Savior, Jesus Christ. I have a firm testimony that He lived upon this earth, fulfilled His earthly ministry, and willingly suffered for every son and daughter of God in the Garden of Gethsemane and on the Cross at Calvary. He rose from the tomb, having conquered death. And in so doing, He has provided the way for each of us to repent of our sins and overcome death.

I am grateful for my relationship with the Prince of Peace. He has offered me hope and peace when I have been in the depths of despair. He has healed my broken heart and has helped me to start anew time and time again. He has calmed my troubled soul with His perfect compassion and empathy. I believe there is a longing in every human soul to feel understood and loved, and Jesus Christ provides both completely and perfectly.

I bear testimony with the dear prophet of my youth, President Gordon B. Hinckley, that without the Atonement of Jesus Christ, "life is meaningless. It is the keystone in the arch of our existence." Jesus Christ gives meaning and purpose to my life. I stand in awe and wonder at the matchless gift of love that our Father in Heaven has given to all mankind, even that of His Only Begotten Son. My hope is that we will all open our hearts to be touched by His unending love this Easter season and always.

I invite you to reflect on the impact the Prince of Peace has had in your life as you watch this video:

"The Prince of Peace: Find Lasting Peace Through Jesus Christ."