Repentance in a New LIght

 My favorite word is JOY so I really loved the talk by Elder Craig C Christiansen, "There Can Be Nothing So Exquisite and Sweet as Was My Joy"!!!!  I had a few thoughts that really stood out to me as I've studied this talk...

1) Repentance is something we do daily to turn toward the Savior - but that doesn't mean we've done something wrong! One question that was posed by a sister studying this topic was: "How do I word repentance in prayer when I'm not saying sorry to God for something I did wrong?" I love this question because it makes me think about repentance occurring for more than mistakes and sins. Repentance is the process of learning, of growth, of change. It is a process of inviting the Savior's light and grace more fully into our lives. It brings joy because it prepares our hearts to receive the Holy Ghost and the Holy Ghost gives the strongest testimony that can be given... it is even better than a personal visit! "The Lord has taught that there is a stronger witness than seeing a personage, even of seeing the Son of God in a vision. Impressions on the soul that come from the Holy Ghost are far more significant than a vision. When Spirit speaks to Spirit, the imprint upon the soul is far more difficult to erase. Every member of the church should have impressions that Jesus is the Son of God indelibly pictured on his soul through the witness of the Holy Ghost." [President Joseph Fielding Smith] When we experience doubt - drawing closer to Christ is repentance. When we are feeling weak, confused, afflicted, or overwhelmed when we take those things to Jesus seeking His strength and help THAT is also repentance! I am so thankful for repentance - the process of change - and the great joy that it brings into one's life! 

2) Jesus found joy in saving us. 

I love this comment and the insight it invites into the Savior's love for me. It also makes me think a little more deeply about the hard things I've experienced - I have to ask myself, could I have felt greater joy through that challenge like the Savior found joy in the outcome of His sufferings? I have experienced joy in times of trial, but not necessarily in the trials themselves... It is worth pondering...