Today in Jerusalem, the only significant thing that occurs is the placing of a guard at the tomb where Jesus has been laid to rest. The Pharisees and Jewish leaders had remembered Jesus' sayings that on the third day, He would rise again. For fear of the disciples stealing the body and deceptively reporting that Jesus had risen, Pilate agreed to have a guard at watch and instructed that the tomb be sealed tight.
For several days, my thoughts have been on the close friends and disciples of Christ. I can imagine that shock filled this, the day after Jesus' death. After so many healings, miracles and the bringing Lazarus back from the dead; I am certain that they were expecting a final minute miracle as Jesus suffered on the cross. Though Jesus had tried to prepare them for what was to occur, as Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea finalized the burial, I wonder if shock and intolerable sorrow and confusion overcame those who loved Jesus most?
However, Jesus' work of teaching and preaching has not come to an end. As this day passes by in Jerusalem, the Nephites are experiencing three days of darkness after massive destruction filled their lands. During this time of darkness, the Nephites hear the voice of Christ. Jesus declares who He is, teaches that the more righteous were spared and invites them to repent. This was a time of preparation, for the Nephites would soon be in the presence of their Savior.
Also during this three days, Jesus is busy teaching in the Spirit World. D&C 138 has a wonderful account of His ministry at this time. Much of Jesus' work in the Spirit World is in organizing the righteous to be prepared to teach and preach in spirit prison.
One part of the Easter story that this year seemed more significant than in years passed is the suffering that our Father in Heaven may have been experiencing as well. Undoubtedly, the broader perspective came into play, but I have a hard time imagining that our Father went without great sorrow as He watched His most righteous Son take on so much for the salvation of each and every one of His beloved children.
This is a video clip that I have loved so much. I hope you enjoy.
Hymn: "In Memory of the Crucified"
Scripture Experience:
* A guard is placed at the tomb (Matthew 27:62-66)
* Darkness prevails among the Nephites (3 Nephi 9-10)
* Jesus goes to the spirit world and organizes His work there (1 Peter 3:18-4:6; D&C 138)
* Jesus testifies to the Nephites (3 Nephi 9:14-22)
No comments:
Post a Comment