This wonderful passage (verse 8) is the only one in all of holy writ where the three key words merits, mercy, and grace are used together in relationship to the Atonement. Joseph Fielding Smith has summarized the dual blessings of the Atonement succinctly: “The atonement of our Savior is twofold in its benefits to mankind through the shedding of his blood. First, all mankind are redeemed from death and will receive the resurrection. This is the free gift of God. Second, it gives to all those who will repent of all their sins, redemption from their sins if they will accept and obey his gospel and endure to the end” (Answers to Gospel Questions, 5 vols. [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1957–1966], 1:182).
Let us seek to understand and appreciate more fully the Atonement of Christ and share our understanding and thanksgiving with others. Gratitude will draw us closer to the Lord. This acts as a catalyst that brings about within us a change of attitude, leading to improved actions.