This stunning painting depics the two Apostles, Peter and John, running toward the tomb when they had heard from Mary Magdalene and the other women that Jesus was risen. I can only imagine the joy in their hearts as they racedto see for themselves. I can also sense the doubt, perhaps, and the hoping beyond hope. They knew who He was, and they knew His power, and they knew that He would rise again. 

As Christmas ventures closer, I cannot just think of the birth of our Redeemer. I think of the life He lived, the example that He was, and of His many miracles. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I know that Jesus Christ has risen. I am sure of it, just as sure of it as I am that the sun rises everyday and will again in the morning. I know it, and I cannot deny it. I know that He appeared to the peoples of Ancient America, after His Resurrection. I am indeed so very grateful that He did. His miracles continue around the world today, touching hearts and healing wounds. He has not abandoned His people, nor will He. We must not abandon Him. We must follow His teachings, and the example that He left for us. 

We may be persecuted for our beliefs, but so were our fathers, and our fathers’ fathers and all those who came before. I consider it a privilege to be persecuted because I believe in Christ and His teachings, and because I believe that a prophet leads His church today. I consider it a privilege to be mocked by former friends for following that Prophet. I believe that God speaks to him, and that he will never take a position on any issue, from abortion to proposition 8 in CA, without the Lord revealing His position. Either God speaks to His prophet, or He does not. It is as simple as that.

I know that He speaks to prophets. I know it, and I will never deny it. Whatever persecutions may beset me, I will NEVER deny that. 

A verse from my favorite hymn:

The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose,
I will not, I cannot desert to His foes!
That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,
I’ll never, no, never, no never forsake!