I love the Spring! Bees are humming, sweet birds are singing. The grass and trees begin to show forth the bright green indicators of life renewed. It is a wonderful time of year for me personally as we leave the dark and dreariness of winter behind for the sunshine and warmth of spring.

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As I contemplated this, I feel it is not coincidental that the Easter season is nearly upon us. What was one of the darkest times the world had seen as the Savior of mankind stood against false trials and had his own people execute a death sentence upon him while his loved ones stood nearby and watched the gory scene; transitioned quickly into one of the most important and beautiful scenes that the Earth will ever behold. Yes, the transition from darkness to light only lasted but a few days as the Savior rescued all mankind from sin and death while executing the demands of the Atonement fully!

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As mourners approached the tomb where the Savior’s body was laid to rest, Angels greeted them with a simplistic question: “Why seek ye the living among the dead?” Then, in a loving sentence, taught them “He is not here but is risen”. (Luke 24:5-6). The Lord of the earth had conquered the pains of death and in so doing, made it possible for each of us to do the same. Jesus Christ had fulfilled His earthly mission and conquered sin and death so that all mankind can have the opportunity to return to live with a loving Heavenly Father throughout eternity.

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Let us find joy in this message. I love Elder Patrick Kearon who is one of the Lord’s modern-day Apostles. His message to find hope and Joy in all that we do gives me a happiness that I have seldom experienced before. The challenge to find Joy in all that I do has changed my perspective and brought peace to my life. While his agony in Gethsemane and pain on the cross is important for us to understand, that is not where our focus should be. Instead of fixating upon the crown of thorns and the cruel cross of Golgotha, let us search for the living. Let us reflect on the bright and glorious message of the angel at the tomb who stated that Jesus the Christ is risen! Our thoughts should be of happiness during the Easter season as God himself overcame death through the resurrection. What a message of pure joy to share with friends and family. This spring look around you and find all the life renewed and understand that there is Peace in Christ. This is the Season of Joy! Share that message far and wide.

I know that Jesus is real. I know the atonement happened to conquer sin and death. I know that developing a relationship with Him who is mighty to save will bring you joy.

With all my love,

President Brian Dowdy

First Counselor

Kirtland New Mexico Stake