A broken heart and a contrite spirit are the sacrifices required of those who would gain the blessings of eternal life.
"The Savior's perfect submission to the Eternal Father is the very essence of a broken heart and a contrite spirit. Christ's example teaches us that a broken heart is an eternal attribute of godliness. When our hearts are broken, we are completely open to the spirit of God and recognize our dependence on him for all that we have and all that we are. ... Like malleable clay in the hands of a skilled potter, the brokenhearted can be molded and shaped in the hands of the master."
The broken heart and contrite spirit are precursors to repentance, faithful service, submissiveness and other qualities that prepare Christ's followers to recognize and receive the blessings of the atonement. They are a shield against temptation and the wellspring of gratitude for Christ's suffering on the behalf of all mankind. In Gethsemane and on Golgotha, the Savior demonstrated an all-encompassing love. "When we remember the Savior and his suffering, our hearts, too, will break in gratitude for the Anointed One. ... As we make the sacrifice to him ... the Lord will fill our hearts with peace."
