In ancient Israel, the closest male relative was responsible for the well-being of the entire family. He was often the head of the house, but he could also be a brother or an uncle. His responsibilities included making sure the extended family, in-laws, and nonrelatives living with the family were provided for and protected. If someone he was responsible for fell into bondage or lost their land, this male relative was called upon to do everything in his power to buy back, save, or help them. When fulfilling these responsibilities, he was referred to as a “kinsman redeemer.”
For us, Jesus Christ is our closest male relative. It is his responsibility to be our kinsman redeemer. He is who I call upon when I am in trouble or when I need guidance. There are many situations in my life when I haven’t been able to pull myself out of something alone, and it’s so comforting to know I have a kinsman redeemer who is there for me. He is the one who redeems me from poor choices, worldly pains, and the sorrows of my consequences. Understanding this has changed the way I view my relationship with him.
For me, it isn’t a suggestion to call upon Christ; it’s expected. This makes it easier to appeal to him when I am weighed down with grief or am in need of aid. I am not a bother to Christ. No one is. Calling to Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ in prayer or in my heart becomes easier because I am a part of his family. There is no need for me to fear what might come. Christ pulls me from my pains and redeems me from any situation, no matter how bitter, disappointing, or precarious. He is my Redeemer.
—Sarah Locey, Winter 2026 Latter-day Saint Insights Contest Winner
FEATURE IMAGE BY JEM SAHAGUN