In class last Thursday we had a discussion that touched my heart. It centered around Mark 15 and the interaction between Jesus and Pilate. In verse 5 and 44 the word "marvelled" is used to describe Pilate's reaction. As was mentioned in class- Pilate had never met anyone like Jesus before. Two stories were also related in class concerning heroic, selfless acts of others in our own day and time. And it was stated "These are people we don't meet everyday. We don't understand their actions. This is Jesus in front of Pilate." We marvel, because we don't understand... That thought- of these extraordinary people- brought tears to my eyes. I know people who live a Christ-like life, because they have touched me personally. Their example causes me to marvel and desire to be more like them and more like our Savior.

How blessed we are to live in a world that in the midst of so much evil, still contains so much light and good. Across ages, cultures, races, religions, etc. there are people out there who still surprise us. They surprise us with their good, their charity, their selflessness. It brings me great peace to dwell on those who choose the right with no thought to themselves, merely living their life, choosing good and service over evil and selfishness.

Sunday night I had the opportunity to attend a concert at the Tabernacle on Temple Square. It was an Interfaith Music Tribute with the theme: "Many Faiths: One Family." This event brought together people from many different countries, cultures, and religions. There was a Jewish children's choir, Native American dancers, a Muslim children's choir, Presbyterian Pipe Band playing the bagpipes, a Catholic and Baptist adult choir, a Buddhist children's choir, an LDS children's choir, Hindu dancers, and more. It was incredibly beautiful, particularly the voices of the children who sang about their common faith in God. Particularly touching was when the Muslim and Jewish children's choirs sang together of peace and friendship and common ancestry.

This event is one that I imagine many people would marvel over. But this is what the Gospel of Jesus Christ is all about. Recognizing that we are all children of God and He loves each of us regardless of race or religion. I believe that recognizing this- our nature as children of God- is central to loving as did Jesus Christ and having the charity and selflessness He possesses. These extraordinary people found all around us love and serve others. They surprise us with their ability to sacrifice for others and serve those they do not know. The New Testament is full of the teachings and example of Jesus in regards to these qualities. It is my humble hope that I may try to live in such a way that I add to the goodness and light in the world and in the lives of those around me.