None of us is untouched by the challenges of the world around us. We live in a time of conflict, displacement, uncertainty, and division. In such a world, my mind often returns to one of the simplest and most powerful teachings of Jesus Christ: “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9).

Wherever we are in our spiritual journey, each of us can choose to dedicate ourselves to our Savior Jesus Christ.

Jesus Christ has done everything necessary for you, for us, to have joy in this life and forever. Even when we make mistakes and feel discouraged or wonder if we will ever be good enough. There is good news—wonderful, hopeful news! Because God loves us, He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, who took upon Himself our sins so we can repent, be forgiven, and keep progressing. #GeneralConference

In a ministering visit yesterday to members in Colombia, affected by the recent earthquake, we were deeply touched. I will never forget this spontaneous moment in a Cali member devotional. A young boy whose family was displaced from their home ran to the podium where I was standing as the congregation was singing “I Am a Child of God” leading to this tender memory. The members in Cali are laboring in intense situations because of this natural disaster disrupting their lives but not dimming their faith. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is constant.  It brings hope. Even when members are in need of comfort, they are comforting others around them. I also met with the mayor of Cali, Alejandro Eder. We discussed the impact of the earthquake, the emergency response offered by the Church, and future plans to collaborate in recovery efforts. Our love for God motivates us to care for those in need wherever they may be. The neighborhood around the Cali temple site was significantly affected by the earthquake. Gratefully, the temple under construction endured the earthquake unharmed. Even amid uncertainty and loss, we observed hearts anchored in the Savior and strengthened by His promised peace.

As you strive to push new limits in deepening your conversion, you too may be subjected to inhospitable environments, severe temperatures, and extreme pressure. Putting on “the whole armour of God” will allow you to “stand against the wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11) and enhance your ability to stand firm in life’s inevitable spiritual battles.

Being here in beautiful New Caledonia for the first time with Elder Peter F. Meurs, I am amazed how the people are partaking of the delicious fruit of the gospel of Jesus Christ just like Lehi described in the Book of Mormon.

My mother was an example of pure goodness. Her expectations motivated me. Almost every action I made was measured against the thought, “I do not want to disappoint my mom.” Together with my father, my parents anchored our home in the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was the foundation of our lives. I will always be grateful for my mother’s righteous influence on me early in my life. I am equally grateful to my Lesa and the wonderful mother she has always been for our children.

I invite you to take a screenshot of this word cloud and additional graphics summarizing our discussion during the worldwide devotional for young adults. These principles of the gospel, alongside practical applications of gospel living, demonstrate that Jesus Christ and His Atonement live at the center of our effort to deepen conversion. Please reserve some quiet time within the next week to prayerfully consider these precepts with others that will come to your mind, that will lead to deepening your conversion and lifelong discipleship to Jesus Christ.

When it comes to deepening our conversion to Jesus Christ, we can always go deeper. We shouldn’t compare the depth of our conversion to reaching the bottom of the swimming pool. Our potential to deepen our conversion to Jesus Christ is greater than the vastness of the ocean or the expanse of outer space. When we “launch out into the deep” (Luke 5:4), we will be amazed at the extent of our Savior’s love for us.

Becoming converted to Jesus Christ is a conscious decision to give up our old ways and change to become more like Him. On May 3rd, we look forward to being with you virtually to learn together how we can go even further in deepening our conversion to the Savior Jesus Christ.

As we live in this world of shifting values and beliefs, becoming a lifelong disciple of Jesus Christ will anchor us to the truth. Join me and Lesa on May 3, 2026, for a worldwide devotional for young adults where we will discover together how to further our capacity to become lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ.

Have you ever stood at an empty airport luggage return carousel, as it circles endlessly, wondering if your bag somehow was diverted to Kathmandu? Have you ever been told the last known location of your checked bag was somewhere between “It is sure to turn up somewhere” and “You should consider buying everything new”? Have you ever been ghosted by a suitcase that contained essential materials for a critical presentation? If so, this message might interest you. #GeneralConference

Although the pressures felt by the rising generation differ from those of the young person in Galilee, Jesus Christ’s teachings still apply today: “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). Today, peacemaking still begins in the most basic place—in our hearts. Then in homes and families. As we practice there, peacemaking will spread into our neighborhoods and communities.

I think the Lord smiles down upon us as He observes our celebration of His birth and our recognition of Him as the Light of the World and Son of the living God.

The sacrifices made by pioneer members of the Church in South America and throughout the world inspire me and strengthen my faith in Jesus Christ.

All of us have experienced challenges and afflictions as part of mortality. We are reminded, “And ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours” (Doctrine and Covenants 78:18).