“O then, my beloved brethren, come unto the Lord, the Holy One. Remember that his paths are righteous. Behold, the way for man is narrow, but it lieth in a straight course before him, and the keeper of the gate is the Holy One of Israel; and he employeth no servant there; and there is none other way save it be by the gate; for he cannot be deceived, for the Lord God is his name. And whoso knocketh, to him will he open…” (2 Nephi 9:41-42)
My son loves to play baseball. We have spent the last several months trying out for various competitive teams to find the team that will be the best fit for him and for our family. There are so many factors to consider: cost, intensity, coaching styles, friends on the team, team culture, opportunities for playing different positions etc. I often wish that I could just see the answer and that the right choice would be clear and simple. But rarely in life and hardly ever in parenting is the path clear and simple.
Sometimes the gospel can seem complicated. There are so many commandments! So many good things we should be doing and not enough time to do them all. It can seem overwhelming and impossible at times. But the bottom line is there is just one path. One gate. One way to enter the kingdom and live with our Father in Heaven again, and that is through Jesus Christ. Benjamin De Hoyos said in a conference address in April 2011, “It does not matter our circumstances, trials, or challenges that might surround us; an understanding of the doctrine of Christ and His Atonement will be the source of our strength and peace—yes, brothers and sisters, that internal tranquility that is born of the Spirit and which the Lord gives to His faithful Saints.” (“Called to Be Saints.”)
Everything else aside, He is the way. Knowing Him and building a relationship with Him is all that matters. If we are striving to do that and working to keep communication with Him, everything will fall into place. He is eagerly waiting to open the gate for us. All we have to do is knock and He will pour His love upon us. It really is that simple.
Meditation and Journaling Prompt: How can you strengthen your relationship with Christ today?
Call to Action: During your meditation/mindfulness practice today, imagine yourself at the proverbial door with Christ on the other side. Knock, and visualize Him opening the door and embracing you.
