President Thomas S. Monson on Jesus Christ's gift to mankind

President Thomas S. Monson (1927–2018) was sustained to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1963. He served as a counselor in the First Presidency with Presidents Benson, Hunter, and Hinckley and then became Church president in 2008. He led the Church for almost a decade until his passing in January 2018.

"Our Heavenly Father’s plan contains the ultimate expressions of true love. All that we hold dear, even our families, our friends, our joy, our knowledge, our testimonies, would vanish were it not for our Father and His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Among the most cherished thoughts and writings in this world is the divine statement of truth: 'For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.' (John 3:16)

"This precious Son, our Lord and Savior, atoned for our sins and the sins of all. That memorable night in Gethsemane His suffering was so great, His anguish so consuming that He pleaded, 'Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.' (Matt. 26:39) Later, on the cruel cross, He died that we might live, and live everlastingly. Resurrection morning was preceded by pain, by suffering in accordance with the divine plan of God. Before Easter there had to be a cross. The world has witnessed no greater gift, nor has it known more lasting love."

- Thomas S. Monson, "Gifts," General Conference April 1993
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Easter is the commemoration of "the ultimate expressions of true love." In this beautiful conference address, President Monson taught us of the giving of gifts in general, but concluded with this powerful reminder of that ultimate gift given by the Father and by the Son. God loved the world so much that he offered His Son; and the Son loved so much that He offered His life. Because of those gifts, everything that is most precious and dear in the world is available to us.

How grateful we should be to commemorate this glorious gift of love on Easter. And how faithful we should be to that gift and message throughout the year!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2019)