Sister Tamara W. Runia, first counselor in the Young Women general presidency, knows that even the smallest light pushes back darkness. But most things don’t create their own light, she said—they reflect it, like how the moon reflects light from the sun.
“And in a lot of ways, we are the same,” Sister Runia said. “On our own, we sometimes feel dim, afraid, not enough, even overwhelmed. But when we turn towards Jesus Christ, we begin to reflect His light. …
“Letting His radiance shine through you is not about being perfect or even pretending you’re perfect. It means staying close to Him so His light naturally shines in your life.”
Sister Runia spoke about the power of Jesus Christ’s light on Wednesday, April 29, in the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. She was one of several keynote speakers during the 2026 BYU Women’s Conference, held April 29 through May 1. ...
Faith Like a Muscle
During her keynote address, Sister Runia explored three things that prevent people from reflecting God’s light:
1. “Fear that holds us back.”
2. “Worry that we’re not enough.”
3. “Life’s overwhelming, heavy load.”
Regarding the first point, Sister Runia asked audience members if fear ever overshadows their light because they don’t know what’s ahead.
But faith isn’t static, she said; and to maintain it, a person has to exercise it regularly, just like they have to exercise their physical bodies to stay healthy.
Visit the Church News to read more about Sister Runia’s message at this year’s BYU Women’s Conference.
More articles for you:
▶ 3 ways to adapt your lessons to the new Sunday class schedule
▶ Are you among the ‘wise hearted’? Answering God’s call to creative people everywhere
▶ 11 heartfelt Mother’s Day gifts for the women you love
