Jesus fills our lives with light. Isaiah prophesied of a time when Israel would be filled with light and people everywhere would be drawn to them. That prophecy was fulfilled at the temple in Bountiful and will be fulfilled at the Savior's Second Coming. It is also fulfilled as we each receive His everlasting light.
Finding Jesus in Isaiah 2-14
Nephi quotes thirteen chapters from the book of Isaiah in a row, saying that Isaiah saw his Redeemer. These chapters begin and end with a divinely appointed place of refuge, and they speak of a promised child who will bring stability and peace in a chaotic world. Nephi identifies that child as Jesus Christ.
No Shepherd
Moses used the metaphor of shepherdless sheep as he pleaded with God to call a successor to lead Israel. Subsequent prophets, and the Savior Himself, used the same metaphor to lament the absence or negligence of leaders. But Alma points out that sheep can be shepherdless by choice, if they refuse to hear their shepherd.
Jesus Christ is the Way
The builders of the Tower of Babel hoped to make a name for themselves and ascend to heaven through their own efforts. In contrast, King Benjamin taught that salvation comes only through the name of Jesus Christ. As we grow closer to Him, He unites us and lifts us to our Father in Heaven.
“He Redeemed Them, and Bore Them, and Carried Them”
According to Isaiah, when the Savior returns to earth, we will all recognize and acknowledge the many ways the Savior has carried us. Perhaps we have a general awareness of this fact, but according to Isaiah, it will become much more intimate and personal to us at that time.
Fire, Snow, Sun, and Great Waters
Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery described the Savior using biblical imagery: eyes like fire, hair like the snow, a countenance like the sun, and a voice like great waters. These metaphors remind us that the Savior knows us perfectly, that He is pure and holy, that He radiates light, and that He speaks with power.
Light, Life, and Law
Jesus is our light, life, and law. He helps us to see clearly, to recognize truth and goodness. He empowers us to flourish, to be vibrant and enthusiastic. He guides us to make wise decisions, avoid destructive behaviors, and channel our energy toward eternal goals. His power enlightens, energizes, and guides us.
That Through Him All Might Be Saved
In Jerusalem and in the Americas, Jesus proclaimed, "I will draw all men unto me." In 1832, Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon learned more about the meaning of that promise. Jesus offers salvation to all of God's children, meaning that He makes available to us all of the glory which we are willing to receive.
From Eternity to Eternity
Book of Mormon prophets and Doctrine and Covenants 76 testify of the premortal divinity of Jesus Christ. He was "the Lord Omnipotent" before He was born, He created the heavens and the earth, and "from eternity to eternity He is the same." Our confidence in Him rests upon a recognition of His eternal godhood.
My Advocate, My Accuser
John assures sinners that Jesus is our Advocate. Like a defense attorney, He highlights our strengths, while Satan, the Accuser, magnifies our flaws. Which voice do you listen to? Sister Tamara W. Runia suggests that we imagine Jesus praying for us. What would He say, and how does that help us see ourselves more accurately?