It Started as a Little Seed

As I shared my insight in seminary earlier today, I was thinking back to that wonderful week of EFY (my company's counselors are picture above) in June two summers ago. There, the seed was planted that aroused "a great change of heart" in me.

The message I shared was from verse 69 in D&C Section 76. As I reflected and taught about Christ's "perfect atonement" I remembered back to how it really did make me "perfect in Christ". Not that I was or am perfect now, but my sins and every trouble and turmoil was washed away because of what He did for me, for all of us. His atonement opens the door of repentance to all who come unto Christ and it allows us to be forgiven completely- perfectly! How AMAZING is that?!? :) Pretty dang amazing.

My first time at EFY was where I really started to build my testimony. I finally had a foundation set- something I could build on continually, precept upon precept, and that I persist to strengthen each day. I'm so happy Heavenly Father sent me there at that time. He knew that I needed every single thing that was placed before me that week, so that I could finally allow Him into my life.

I was blocking Him out before- ever so foolishly. The incredible thing about the atonement is, though, that none of that even matters anymore! Christ's perfect atonement gave us the opportunity to be fully forgiven; so forgiven, in fact, that God remembers our sins no more.

It makes me even happier that, not only was I able to change my whole outlook on life, but Heavenly Father sparked a dream inside of my soul. I seek to draw closer to that goal every day- to bring the world His truth. Of course, it won't be easy, but I know that ANYTHING is possible when the Lord is on our side, when we invite Him in, when His Spirit is our constant companion.

I love when He is with me. :) Every part of the Spirit's presence brings me a joy that is so special. I can't even explain it, but this gospel, this truth, this good news is the reason that I SMILE all the time!!