January 1, 2026

"In his message “Jesus Christ Is the Treasure,” Elder Dale G. Renlund encouraged us to “remember and always focus on Jesus Christ” (Liahona, Nov. 2023, 98). Consider reading his message, looking for things you can do to find Jesus Christ not only in the Old Testament but also in your life."

2 Nephi 31:19

And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path, I would ask if all is done? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save.

Elder Renlund, in speaking about looking past the mark of our Savior, referred to 2 Nephi 31:19 in part saying "We are counseled to rely 'wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save.'"

The word "wholly" stood out to me. Not fractionally, partially, sometimes, not even mostly, but wholly. We will not receive the happiness He intended for us if we hold with one hand to Him and another hand somewhere else, whether that be other people, hobbies, philosophies, etc.... Our peace, joy, salvation, and exaltation come solely from the merits of Him who is not only mighty to save, but living and humble enough to do so, to pay the infinite price, for each of us individually. I am grateful for my Savior.

"He is our mark. If we incorrectly imagine that there is a need for something beyond what He offers, we deny or diminish the scope and power He can have in our lives.... Jesus Christ is our treasure."