Brenna

It's probably no surprise that Easter has become my favorite Holiday. On this day we remember that Jesus defeated death by His Resurrection. What does this mean for me and my family? Even though death physically separates us from Brenna, we know that it will not be forever. There will be a day when we will be reunited with Brenna. I think about that reunion every day. It is Jesus and His Resurrection that will make that day a reality for our family. That is what Easter means for our family.

On a slightly different topic. I really enjoyed Elder Dallin H. Oaks talk on priesthood blessings and healing the sick. I have given Brenna many priesthood blessings. She has benefited from these blessings and I feel that it has helped her and even extended her life. However, there are times when I ask myself why I could not heal her completely and save her from death. Was I not worthy enough? Did I not exercise enough faith? General Conference and specifically Elder Oaks helped me realize a few important things. There was an abundance of faith to heal Brenna when I consider the following...

• the many people (family and friends) that have prayed and fasted for her
• the many times she has been on the temple prayer roll
• the couple of times that I know of where she had been on the prayer roll of the First Presidency (Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Monson, James E. Faust)

There is no doubt in my mind that there was enough faith. Was I worthy? I am by no means perfect, but I feel that I try to live the Gospel as best I can. I always feel that there is room for improvement. We all have sin and we all fall short of the Glory of God. Where I fall short, I have my Saviour to make up for the difference as long as I repent and improve. 

Elder Oaks reminded me that It was Brenna's time to return to her Heavenly Father. It was His Will.

So knowing that it was the will of Heavenly Father that she return to Him and knowing that I will see Brenna again because of Jesus Christ and His Resurrection helps lift the burden of her death. The message of Easter brings peace and hope in our home.