Thoughts of Christ

I was reading my scriptures the other night and I really started to think and wonder about how the atonement has affected my life in so many way. The atonement is a powerful occurrence and has great meaning and purpose in my life. What comes quickly to my mind when I think on the subject is the suffering of both body and spirit that the Savior endured. How, I don’t know, but my heart is full of love and gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice Christ suffered for me. We are forever indebted to him and the mercy he made available to us.  Without the atonement our purpose here on earth would be limited and have no real meaning for the “demands of justice would not be satisfied.” I think that if we do not take advantage of the atonement and respect it then we are only mocking Jesus’ suffering.  Elder McConkie said, “Through it, all men are saved from death, hell, the devil, and endless torment.” All these things are free from us if we heed to his call, repent, and follow in the Savior’s footsteps. We can all be protected and blessed by his mercy and that, to me puts everything in perspective.  He knows my every pain and sorrow. There is comfort in knowing that someone else has been through exactly what I am. He has felt the ache of my heart and that gives me such peace throughout everyday. I know that I am never alone in my suffering.  In 2 Nephi 10:23 it says, “Therefore, cheer up your hearts, and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves- to choose the way of everlasting death or the way of eternal life.” I am thankful for the agency I have to choose and for the example that is placed before me as I make my choices. I love that no matter what my faults and shortcomings may be; there is a plan that is in place for me that can insure my eternal happiness and joy.