A One Sentence Description

How would you describe the gospel of Jesus Christ in one sentence? This question was asked during a recent Relief Society lesson in my Ward and I have been thinking about it and been intrigued by it ever since. I have come to the conclusion that there are numerous possible responses to this. I am sure everyone would have a different answer if asked this question. 

A Facebook friend in my ward who was teaching the R.S. class posted the question on her wall and here are some of the responses she got to the question:

"The gospel of Jesus Christ to me is a feeling, it brings my life so much happiness and makes me want to be a better mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend and person." - M. Francis

"The gospel of Christ to me means having His divine love, compassion and eternal happiness." - R. Jovel

"In my world, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is love - love for God and his Son, love of family, love of myself, love of others, and the amazing love the Savior has for me!" - A. Nadauld

I really like these answers, but mine is a bit different from theirs. I will share my own answer, but first of all I want to clarify it by saying that one of the many ways our Church differs from other Churches is that we have the Plan of Salvation. We know who we are, why we are here, and where we will go after our life on this earth ends. This knowledge gives me much satisfaction and peace of mind. My answer to the posed question is reflected in my knowledge of the Plan of Salvation and the hope it gives me for the future. This is how I would answer the question: The gospel of Jesus Christ to me is a blueprint, road map, or playbook for me to follow in order to live life to the fullest, to be the best person I can be, and to accomplish everything I need to do in order to return to live with my Heavenly Father again where I can enjoy never-ending happiness wrapped in the arms of His love.

I know that is a long sentence, but there is no way to describe the gospel of Jesus Christ in one short sentence. I want to challenge everyone reading this blog to ponder that question and come up with your own answer. Leave a comment and let me know how you would describe it. I would love to hear from as many people as I can. I am interested in what you have to say on the subject.

There's Nothing Like Holding A Newborn

I was able to make a trip to Horn Lake, Mississippi recently to meet my new granddaughter, Clara, and spend time with her older brother Milo (and their parents, of course).  Not everyone is drawn to infants, but I sure am. Once Clara was in my arms, it was hard to force myself to put her down. I had her pretty much to myself until Cheryl arrived a couple of days later. 

Milo is such a good big brother to Clara. He is very gentle with her (so far).

We happened to be there on Halloween. Milo was the cutest Ewok and Clara the cutest Yoda I have ever seen. Milo's warm costume was perfect for combating the frigid trick-or-treating temperatures.

Emily & Kyle completed the family's Star Wars theme by dressing as Princess Leia and Han Solo. So cute!

My first day there, we were able to meet Kyle for a lunch at a park close to his school. I didn't take many photos of the event, but here is one of Milo on the swing. You can't tell from this photo, but Milo really was enjoying it. He didn't want to get off. I call him "Mr. Sober Face." He might not be smiling, but he sure is cute none the less.

Clara loves her pacifier.

Sweet dreams for now, little one. You will be busy exploring the world before you know it.