Tasting the Atonement

Quietly and humbly, the recently returned missionary ascended the stand in Fast and Testimony meeting. He paused as he looked around the congregation, holding the sides of the podium for support. It was a private yet intimate moment with the Spirit, and he struggled to formulate words the could reflect what he was feeling in his heart.  Elder Jeffrey R Holland stated in April 2017 Conference: "These kinds of sanctified moments remain unuttered because expression, even if it were possible, might seen like desecration". Finally the message came as he spoke through his tears, tapping the podium with his index finger for emphasis, and stated quietly: “Jesus Christ lives. I know Him. I know Him as well as I stand here. I love Him”. Afterwards, it was an honor to give this Elder an embrace, look him in the eye, and say, “You tasted it, didn’t you? The atonement. I felt it in our words -- you know”. Humbly and quietly he nodded in affirmation.

 Alma 36: 26 For because of the word which he has imparted unto me, behold, many have been born of God, and have tasted as I have tasted, and have seen eye to eye as I have seen; therefore they do know of these things of which I have spoken, as I do know; and the knowledge which I have is of God.

LESSON LEARNED: There is a special opportunity, one often granted to very faithful missionaries, to taste of the joy of the atonement. It cannot be put into words, but when you taste it, you know it.

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