52 Blessings Project: Week #12 and #13

Jesus Christ

Over the Easter holiday I was reminded of the time when I received my own testimony of Jesus Christ. I think I was about 15 or 16 years old. It was the Monday before Easter and my mom gave a Family Home Evening lesson on the Savior and the Atonement. I don't remember exactly how the lesson went, but the Spirit must have been there. After Family Home Evening was over everyone went upstairs to get their treat for the night, but I stayed down in the family room by myself. I opened the hymn book to "I Know that My Redeemer Lives" and sang it to myself. The Spirit was so strong, my eyes welled up with tears, and I had an over powering feeling- warmth in my heart. And I knew. I knew and I know now that Jesus Christ is my older brother who loves me so much that He died for me- that I might live again. He accepted this amazingly difficult challenge to suffer for our sins though he had none of His own. Through him it is possible that we can repent when we do wrong. Because of Him I can return to our Father in Heaven someday. I know it and can not deny it. It is not something I just believe anymore. I know it and for this knowledge and blessing I am so grateful.

Baptism/ Nick & Angie

Today we were blessed to attend the baptism of Nick & Angie. I was honored to speak at the baptism too- on the gift of the Holy Ghost. The ordinance of baptism is an incredible one... our first step on our path home to our Father in Heaven. It's a day you never forget whether you were 8 years old or 88 years old. Today the Spirit was so strong as we watched them be baptized. They were both so, so happy. Nick was baptized first, followed by Angie. After Angie was baptized, Nick came back down in the font and they hugged and hugged each other and then gave each other a little kiss. It was such a sweet moment. Then their little 3 year old daughter says, "That was cool!!" Laughter, tears, hugs, and kisses... joy. Pure joy. What a blessing it has been to be a part of their journey as they learned about the truths of the gospel. The have been a blessing to all of us who have watched and experienced the growth of their testimonies. They have changed and they have helped to change many of us in the ward.