"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times"

We live in a scary world. 

In a short space of time, 2 horrific events have happened where numerous people have died. When you think things couldn't get any worse, they do. My heart goes out to those who have been affected in Manchester and London these past few weeks.

For those of you who are not familiar with the Mormon church, once a month we hold a testimony meeting during our worship service. This is an opportunity for the members of the congregation to share their thoughts and feelings about Jesus Christ and how other principles of the gospel have helped them in their lives. 

Today was testimony meeting and I was able to feel great comfort and peace despite all the horrible things that are going on within the world. 

I was reminded of a scripture within The Book of Mormon in the Book of Ether which is towards the end of the Book of Mormon. Ether was the prophet and he was strongly encouraging the people to believe in God and exercising that faith in Him.

"Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God." 

That was what I was able to feel today as the other members in the congregation were able to share their thoughts and feelings. It is the worst of times because of everything that is going on within the world but it is the best of times because we have the gospel of Jesus Christ on restored on the earth again so we can have hope in dark times like this. 

Mosiah 18:8-9

"And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (For thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called His people, and are willing to bear one another's burdens that they maybe light;

Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that morn; yea and comfort those that stand in need of comfort..."

I am grateful to be part of a country that comes together during times of need, I have seen so much love and support over these past few weeks which gives me hope that even though things are going to get crazy, we can all stand together and overcome what's going to come our way.

I am grateful for the light I have in my life, that when dark times do arise I can exercise hope for a better world. I am grateful to be surrounded by people who will reach out in times of need. May we continue to reach out, even when times aren't hard so that we all continue to come together.

Love and prayers for Manchester and London