He Lives!

As Easter approaches, reminders of Spring are everywhere. The grass is green, flowers are blooming, and sunshine is everywhere. The birds are singing, the air is fresh, and I am feeling grateful to be alive! Everywhere are beautifully decorated eggs, chocolates, and people in the grocery store dressed up as bunnies (How is that cute? Am I seriously the only one terrified of the Easter Bunny!?). There are so many reminders of new life, but I think we often forget why we celebrate Easter. Yes, it is about new life, but in so much more of a beautiful and significant way than an Easter egg can say!

Our Savior suffered in the Garden of Gethsemane for us. He bled from every pore. He felt every pain, sickness, sorrow, and suffering that any of us would ever feel. He also felt every joy, happiness, pleasure, and delight that any of us would ever know. He felt it all. He truly understands YOU, and EXACTLY what you are feeling and going through, whether good or bad. He suffered for every sin that would ever be (or had already been) committed. He drank the bitter cup that we might live with him again. He then died on the cross for us.

All of this is true, and all of this is vital. Without his Atonement for us, not a single one of us would be able to return to live with him. But there is more.

On the third day after his death, he rose from the tomb, breaking free from the bondage of death. An angel proclaimed to his friends, "He is not here, for he has risen" (Matthew 28:6)! What glorious news!

Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ was resurrected! He has risen, and he lives today. I know that he atoned and died for us, but I also know that he was resurrected and lives for us! Because of him, we may live again, and live with him!

Yes, I know I'm using a lot of exclamation points. Yes, I know that annoys some people. But when you cannot see my face, and cannot hear my voice, I have limited options as to how to communicate the importance and beauty of these words with you.

He lives!! Can you not feel your heart thrill within you? Can you not feel the Spirit testifying that what I am saying is true? I know that if you will pray about it, you will receive an answer. You will come to know this. Our Savior lives for us. He lives for me, and he lives for you.

As you celebrate the new life that Spring brings, and the fun and excitement of hunting for Easter eggs, finding baskets, and dying eggs, try to remember the new life that Easter is really about. And remember that even today, he lives!