To "Know" Christ

Perhaps central to all Christianity is an ideal or goal of one day knowing Jesus Christ. Our quest really takes form when we realize that our goal of knowing Christ must begin here on this earth. How can we know what we cannot see? Perhaps first we must ask, what does the word "know" mean?

In most latin languages the word "know" can be translated into two different words depending on the usage. In spanish these words are "Saber" and "Conocer." Both mean "know" but in very distinct ways. Saber is to have a knowlegde of something... to know how something works or is defined. The word "Conocer" means to know sombody or place. You have actually met them and are familiar or associated with them. You cannot conocer a place you have not been to.

With this exploration I think it helps better understand our goal and quest to "know" Christ or rather "conocer" Christ. Know him like you would a good friend.

Too often we think we need to saber Christ. Or rather in order to know Christ we must read and study all facts, ideas, and history. And although these are very important and necessary we can do them without ever really knowing Christ. It's an interesting idea. We can all read the bio of Albert Einstein and know a lot about him, but never know him. As Christians we believe that we can all actually grow to know Christ here on this earth. Know him in the same way you know a good friend. In other words, know that he lives and loves us today and tomorrow. Know that he'll be there for you, and know that through him we can all be cleansed from even our worst mistakes. Ultimately, we grow to know him in a way were we know how he'll respond to our choices, we know what we wants for us, and from us.

So how can we better know Christ? There are many ideas. Prayer, Meditation, keeping out thoughts in harmony, etc etc etc. and yet it's like any good relationship. They are great ideas to build your foundations, and yet, not a perfect or exact formula. Your relationship of knowing Christ is very personal and slightly different for each of us. Perhaps for you knowing Christ is achieved by service. By really going out of your way to make someone's entire life better. By doing so you better understand what the Savior himself went through and grow closer to him. Perhaps, it's church where get to feel of him quietly whisper to you. Or maybe diligent scripture study, regular home teaching, or loving and spending time with you family. I have found personally that my relationship with the Savior and desire to "know" him better, grows best for me through regular temple attendance and fervent prayer.

I bare my testimony that he cares! That he's been near me in the middle of my prayers. That he's hurt and suffered for me. I have felt his presence. I bare witness that we can all "know" him. He is our best friend and he's just there itching to get to know you better. Make an effort for him in your life. I invite you to do all in your power for 3 weeks to better get to know him and you life will be full and rich!