Repentance

We got talking about repentance today in response to President Monson's call to those who have strayed away from the Church. I testified that it comes to all. Most importantly, forgiving those who have wronged us is more important. Not forgiving leaves us with a cancer within us that eats away at the soul. I remember when trying to come to terms with my divorce that seeking forgiveness for myself and for Sheila was an ordeal that lasted several days. I spent time on my knees racked in torment for my part in destroying our marriage. Part of this was anger at her for failing to forgive and part was anger at myself for my personal shortcomings, but the end result was the same. A spiritual pain that tormented me to the point of not being able to function at all. I cried, I hurt, and I prayed to my Savior, Jesus Christ, until he whispered to me that my sins were forgiven. In a heartbeat I went from pure pain to exquisit Joy. It is truly an indescrible feeling that has to be experienced. Now everytime I read about Alma's struggle in the Book of Mormon, I understand. The ultimate Sacrifice Jesus Christ gave for us is real and if we will but turn to him, he can lift our burden. I pray that all may come to know this pleasure. Those of us who have experienced this change of heart understand. For the rest, I hope you never need to repent, but if you do, I testify that Jesus Christ is your Savior also and he stands ready to forgive you when you turn to him and lay your sins at his feet. Though you sins be black as coal, you garments can be made white through the blood of he who was crucified for us all.