What Happens When We Die?

This is probably one of the biggest questions that roams the mind of the human family today. For us in this mortal existence death may seem like a finale or end to the happiness we enjoyed here but in reality it is just the beginning. After our time here on earth is done, we go to the Spirit world waiting for the day of our resurrection. The Book of Mormon prophet, Alma, spoke of this time when he said, "Now, concerning the state of the soul between death and the resurrection - Behold, it has been made known unto me by an angel, that the spirits of all men, as soon as they are departed from this mortal body, yea, the spirits of all men, whether they be good or evil, are taken home to that God who gave them life (Alma 40:11)." What a glorious knowledge to know that all men will be taken there to await their resurrection and judgement. The scriptures also tell us what we will be doing during that time. The righteous will be "received into a state of happiness (Alma 40:12)" where they will rest from their cares. The unrighteous, on the other hand, will be taught the gospel that they did not receive here on earth. The Apostle Peter tells us, "For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit (1 Peter 4:6)." This is one of my favorite things about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Since God loves all of His children, He provides an opportunity for all to receive the gospel whether in this life or the life to come. As I think of the friends and family I have known who have passed away without the blessings of the Gospel that I enjoy, I am happy to understand that they have been taught the things I know and have been given an opportunity to accept them. This time in the Spirit world, however, is not our final stop in the plan of our Heavenly Father. After our time in the Spirit world, we receive the blessing of the resurrection and are judged according to our life on earth. If we have accepted the Gospel of Jesus Christ, kept His commandments, and repented of our sins through His Atonement, we will be able to live again in the presence of our Heavenly Father. What a blessing to know that there is life after death and that our loved ones who have passed away can still receive the Gospel and return to our Father in Heaven. I testify that the by following the laws and ordinances of the Gospel we can receive this happiness now and in the life to come. I know that Joseph Smith did restore Christ's Church again to the earth in these latter days and restored the Priesthood authority necessary to act in God's name here on earth. I am grateful for the blessings the Restored Gospel has brought into my life and encourage all men and women everywhere to experience it as well.