Sunday, February 3, 2008

The Gentle Healer

In the small foyer at the enterance to our home hangs this picture of the Savior, Jesus Christ. I gave this, as a gift, to Hank one year for Christmas. It is titled, so appropriately, "Gentle Healer." We have had this picture for 3 years. I love this picture. I have walked by it numerous times in this home as well as in homes we have lived in previously. I always have the same simple smile on my face as I feel the warmth of His glow.

Since moving to Georgia in August of last year our family has been blessed tremendously. We have felt the love of the Savior Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father in our lives. I have been amazed by the people of the South and the incredible Christlike lives that they lead. They are the most unselfish, kind, and gracious people I have ever met. They would give you the shirt off their own back at any moment. I have also been amazed by their quest for religious knowledge. Their desire to know the Savior Jesus Christ and to adopt His Christlike behavior. This has given me the desire to further educate myself on the doctrines of my faith.

Growing up in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and being the oldest of six children was often crazy. I can remember one evening as a high school student, feeling particularly overwhlemed by the demands of school work, church activities, and athletics. When I returned home on this specific evening I remember my dad asking each of us to bring our scriptures to the living room as we would be having family scripture study and a brief Family Home Evening. I do not remember the words that were spoken, but I do remember the feelings that I had. I knew that what I had been taught was true. It has been said that religion is more than a belief it is something that is felt within us. I knew that the Holy Ghost had taught me one of the greatest lessons I could learn and that is the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

"Gentle Healer" reminds me of that evening. It rememinds me of the love that my Savior has for me and the love that He has for each of us. I have felt His healing touch and know that He lives!

6 comments:

Unknown said...

Thank you for your words. Something must be in the air (even though we don't live close), but you will know what I mean when you read my blog :)!

Miss you, Jen Roper

The Bryner Bunch said...

What a beautiful testimony. Thank you for sharing it. I have heard how incredible the church is back East and I am glad that you guys are really enjoying it there.

Mom's for Mitt!!!

Rebecca said...

Jessica,

This is your old roomie Rebecca Clark. I got your blog address from Melanie. I found her on the internet to send a Christmas card, but I couldn't find you guys. I guess I was looking in CA, and it seems you have made a big move. Mel sent Elizabeth a copy of your card that had your blog address. It has been so fun to catch up with your beautiful little family after all these years! We have a blog that you can find out a little bit about us. It is westbynorthwest.blogspot.com

I loved your thoughts today! I remember when we had our Highland Park scripture study sessions. In fact, I have your name by a few favorite scriptures that you shared. It sounds like you are doing well. It is great to catch up!

Love,
Rebecca

Krissy said...

Jess,
That is my favorite picture of the Savior. It has brought me much comfort through out my life. Thank you for sharing your wonderful thoughts with me today. You had amazing parents who I adored and respected through out my teen years. That's why I took care of you all so much, because I LOVED being around them so much. They were wonderful examples and teachers to me. They blessed my life. Hope you are all doing well. It sure sounds like it. Love, Krissy

Angie Whitman said...

Loved reading your sweet memories and what a blessing to have them recorded for yourself and your posterity!

Also, I am so sorry about not getting you that phone # for the beach house! I will find it and send it to you asap!:0

Evelyn said...

I love that picture as well. Isn't it interesting to live in different areas and to get to know so many different people? I love it. I've learned a lot from the people around me as well. Thanks for your testimony!