Be of Good Cheer

I think everyone can agree that it isn't always easy living in this world. Just turn on the news. Everyday it seems like there is a new story about a horrific murder, an organized crime, or some crazy publicity stunt. Scroll down your Facebook homepage, and you find political confusion, pessimism and anger.

Natural disasters seem to be occurring more frequently and with more force. Teen celebrities are throwing aside values, and gone are the days when the media could provide positive role models for our children. Gang violence, hate crimes, drugs, alcoholism, promiscuity, and the corrosive addition of pornography are everywhere.

Today, in fact, marks the 12 year anniversary of the terror attacks on the World Trade Centers, the Pentagon and United Airlines flight 93. We remember those tragic events, and continue to pray for those who were directly affected.

It may seem like the earth is filling with a heavy darkness, that is only growing thicker, and is spreading like a wildfire on a dry prairie.

But, I believe we have so much going for us.
This is a wonderful, and exciting time to be alive.
In fact, this can be the BEST time of our lives.
We can be hopeful, and happy.
We can find light and truth.

We have so much going for us.
The best is yet to come.
I really believe that.

Numerous times in the scriptures we are counseled to "Be of good cheer". Typically this council is given in the middle of great opposition. One of my favorite parts of the New Testament is in Matthew 14, where the Savior's disciples see a figure walking on the water. They reacted like anyone would and were afraid (how many times have you been sitting in your boat only to see someone strolling towards you on top of the water!).

Jesus responded, "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid." (KJV Matt 14:27)

Peter, recognizing it was indeed his Master, asked if he could come and meet him on the water. Looking at Christ, he placed his feet on the surface, and began to walk.

"But when he saw the winds boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched for his hand, and caught him, and said until him, O thou of little faith, where fore didst thou doubt?" (KJV Matt 14:30-31)

No matter what storms or boisterous winds surround us, we can be of good cheer. We can find hope. We can find peace and lasting joy.

The key faith. Specifically, faith in Jesus Christ. I know Jesus was not just a historical figure. He was and is the Savior of the world. He lived and was crucified and then miraculously rose again three days later. He suffered, bled and died for us. I know him and love him. As we pray, earnestly study the word of God, and live the commandments, we can come to know Him. He can become our source of strength. And when, like Peter, we feel overwhelmed and afraid as the wind whips around and the waves crash, He will guide us and comfort us.

What a blessing to know we do not have to walk through the storms of life alone!