At first, as I arrived downtown, things did not look promising. The city was more crowded than usual, the temple parking lot was full, and I had to park in overflow parking a block or so away. I was about ready to give up and go home. But nevertheless, I parked and made the short hike to the temple. Thankfully, it was a little less crowded inside.
As I sat in the Assembly Room waiting for the session to begin, I was thinking about the events on that Good Friday two thousand years ago. And I thought about what had occurred here in the Americas on that day. I picked up a Book of Mormon and started reading in 3 Nephi chapter 8. A ferocious storm and disaster took place here after the crucifixion of the Lord. Cities were destroyed, and many thousands of people killed, and the whole face of the earth was changed. The people were frightened, and devastated, and in great despair because of the loss of family members and friends. After the storm and destruction ceased, a thick darkness fell, so much that no light could be seen anywhere. This darkness made the fear and despair even worse. I continued with chapter 9, where suddenly, the people hear a voice in the darkness, the voice of the Savior. He offers his love, and promises peace and mercy if we will only come unto him. Later, in chapter 10, after hearing the Lord's voice, the fear and despair ceases, and the mourning of the people is turned into joy, because of Him and his atoning sacrifice.
The Spirit was so strong as I read, I had to read it again. The words and message were beautiful to me. I have definitely been mourning recently, and I have had some doctrinal questions that concerned me. And I've been praying for answers to those questions, and seeking some reassurance in the midst of my sadness. But at that moment, my mourning was turned to joy, and I knew it didn't matter what questions still linger for me. What matters is the Lord's atoning sacrifice and resurrection makes a way for us to not only live again, but to live with Him, and live with our families.
Shortly after this, the session was called, and I the company made their way to begin the proceedings. The endowment is an allegory for the purpose of life, and what we need to do to return to the presence of the Lord after this life is over, and it was comforting to be there. It was a wonderful small session, and I enjoyed participating in the ordinance, and sitting in the Celestial room afterward. As I left the temple that day, I felt rejuvenated, and full of joy, and so grateful for a loving Savior who was mindful of my concerns and willing to provide comfort to me when I needed it.
#PRINCEofPEACE #HeisRisen
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