"If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, … nothing shall be impossible unto you." — Matthew 17:20

Though difficult to admit, I had grown through adversity. I had learned patience, and I had learned much about life. But at one point, I said, "Enough! I can bear no more!" What more was there to learn? The illness I had dealt with had gone on for 35 years. I had strived to keep the commandments. I had been strengthened through adversity by the love of the Savior which had been a part of my life since childhood, but now my faith had begun to tilt a little. I questioned the Savior's love for me.

"I only have an ounce of faith left," I uttered to my family. They tried to help me. My son Bret responded, "Mom, you only need to have as much faith as a mustard seed." I was well aware of that scripture found in Matthew 17:20. The Savior said, "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, … nothing shall be impossible unto you." I pondered the scripture. I began to lean upon the faith of my husband and children because I was still weak. Sunday came. Though hesitant, I went to Church with my family.

I couldn't focus on the opening hymn, the prayer, the announcements. The congregation began singing the sacrament hymn. The music sounded like meaningless blurs of tones in my ears. But slowly a shimmer of humility settled in my mind. The words did have meaning and I began to listen. "How great the wisdom and the love that filled the courts on high and sent the Savior from above to suffer, bleed, and die" (Hymn No. 195).

Tears filled my eyes and ran down my cheeks. Never had the words in the hymn penetrated my soul with such savor. I listened intently to the sacrament prayers. Every word became meaningful and softened my rebellious mind. I was overcome with peace. I became aware of the faith my son had reminded me of, the faith of a mustard seed.

The deacons passed the bread and water. I felt a deep sensitivity as I partook of the emblems and humbly renewed my covenants with the Savior. I felt an insurmountable love for him and from Him. I felt acceptance and forgiveness by the Savior. The depth of His atonement became a testimony of His eternal love.

— Jelean Reynolds, Soundview Ward, Tacoma Washington Stake

"Living by the Scriptures" is another in a series of Church News reader response articles. Was there a time when a particular scripture touched you, when it offered comfort, guidance and much-needed support? If so, please describe your experience in 250-300 words, giving the scripture reference and telling how it affected you.

Send your submission to Church News, P.O. Box 1257, Salt Lake City, Utah 84110. Fax (801) 237-2524. E-mail: churchnews@desnews.com