I Believe in Christ.

Yesterday we went to the baptism of one of my students. She's read the Book of Mormon probably more diligently than I ever have, studied the Restoration, met with the missionaries, and even told her very religious family that she's made the decision to be baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was such a special day to be there with her and so many of my students who have been such wonderful examples of what it means to be a member of the church. Oh I love seeing others make that commitment to the Lord!

As she was changing out of her wet clothes we all sang hymns to keep the Spirit there and stay focused on the real reason we were there: Jesus Christ. We sang "I Believe in Christ" and "Nearer, My God, To Thee". Both hold such tender memories for me. When I was a missionary for the LDS Church I would sometimes struggle with tracting, where we would go from door to door inviting people to learn more about Christ and our faith. In fact most days I hated it. It was uncomfortable, boring, and monotonous. But I did it. Everyday. Because I didn't always have the best attitude about it I had to regularly remind myself WHY I was doing it. Hence where these two hymns come into play. I would sing them in my head over and over to remind myself of the Savior and the love that He has for me and for all those around me. (Plus they have catchy tunes that my not so music talented self could remember.) When I was focused on the Savior I was able to see the miracles that He would bring before me. I was able to see my testimony and the testimony of my companions touch the hearts of others. I was able to see others accept His love and His gospel. I was able to see the unbelievable happen in lives of others.

Yesterday, when we were singing my heart was full of peace and love. I knew my Savior loved me and I knew more than ever that He could make the unbelievable in my life happen.

I believe in Christ; he stands supreme!

From him I'll gain my fondest dream;

And while I strive through grief and pain,

His voice is heard: "Ye shall obtain."

I believe in Christ; so come what may, 

With him I'll stand in that great day

When on this earth he comes again

To rule among the sons of men. 

Regardless of what happens I'm grateful to know that the Lord knows and loves me. He knows my "fondest dream" and I know that it will one day happen. 

For now though, COME WHAT MAY. Our trials can be so difficult and frustrating but I know that as we are diligent in living a Christ centered life we can feel at peace and soon see the unbelievable happen. I know some people out there don't believe that but I do. I've seen and I've felt it in my own life and as cliché as it may sound...it is real. Christ is real. The Spirit is real. That peace and happiness is real.