This pandemic has caused me, as I am sure it has you, more opportunity to “Be Still” and consider the marvelous blessings of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. This weekend we have had the opportunity to fast for all those that are suffering physical, emotional, and economic pains, for those that are relieving the suffering and searching for solutions, and most of all, to petition relief from God and His Son Jesus Christ, the Master Healer of the earth. What a powerful reminder this Easter Sunday is to us of that great healing power as we celebrate the most miraculous event in all the history of this earth, the resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ! I know He Lives and has all power to restore this earth from its current sicknesses, both the physical ills associated with the pandemic as well as the spiritual ills that separate us from the love and grace of Jesus Christ. As with the resurrection, all will be blessed by the promised healing of the earth to come. The spiritual healing power of the Atonement that we celebrate at Easter, however, is granted individually as we repent and take His name upon us by making and keeping sacred covenants.
I hope that following an inspirational general conference, this Holy Week has provided you an opportunity to be still, ponder the blessings of Easter, and reaffirm your testimony that, “He is Risen” -- risen with healing in His wings (2 Nephi 25:13) not only for the physical pain and suffering we go through in this life but also for the spiritual wounds we endure. I testify that Jesus Christ does Live, and that He loves you, no matter where you are, no matter what you have done or experienced, His arms are open, His healing available to you and that if you will turn to Him with full purpose of heart (Mosiah 7:33) He will free you from whatever bondage you may experience, including the current trials we face collectively and individually from this pandemic.