As the celebration of Easter nears, it is appropriate to
remember that Jesus Christ has taught us how to “lay hold upon every good thing”
(Moroni 7:20). After all, He is the
Founder of every good thing.
Fifty-five years ago, in Palmyra, New York, esteeming His example, I was baptized in the same way and by the same authority as Jesus Christ was baptized, nearly two thousand years before in the Holy Land. My baptism was followed by the same divine blessing, the gift and companionship of the Holy Spirit.
Since then, giving heed to the inspiration of Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit has allowed me, in every momentous decision of significant and lasting consequence, to recognize and make the right choice. I have been enabled to perceive what was wise, what was right, what the Lord would advise me to do. The vision and inspiration are from the Savior, who leaves each to choose. The consequence of the right decision has been joyful. As Christ’s prophets have taught, those anciently, and those in our time in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we exist that we might have joy, and Jesus Christ helps us find it.
For example, one category among many has been my career. I can say that I am grateful for the jobs that I wanted and did not get. Instead, in each case, I was blessed with a better one, on a career path fairer than what I had envisioned. The Savior has been my best career counselor. It has been, knowing my thoughts, as if Jesus Christ were to say, that is fine, but I have something more for you. And so it has been and continues.
Now in what is called retirement, I labor for joy above any salary, with my eternal companion as my colleague. Together we are privileged to prepare for the ways of heaven, serving in one of Jesus Christ’s holy Temples. To get there, the first big step I took fifty-five years ago, in Palmyra, New York.
Thinking on such things is appropriate as Easter nears, to celebrate with deep gratitude that Jesus Christ, through His sacrifice and resurrection, made all good possible and placed it within our reach.
