Through Moses, the Lord gave the children of Israel a law. It's a wondrous set of objects, activities, and sacred times all intended to point their hearts to the salvation He would provide them. The Nephites lived this law, recognizing that it pointed their minds forward to Jesus Christ.
“All That the Lord Hath Spoken We Will Do”
Moses received more than tablets of stone on Mount Sinai. He received glory which was visible on his countenance, and he received a law which pointed his people toward salvation. Abinadi taught that the law was tailored to the needs of a stiffnecked people and that it pointed them toward the Savior, Jesus Christ.
Stand Still, and See the Salvation of the Lord
Nephi strengthened his brothers' faith by reminding them of multiple miracles God performed on behalf of their ancestors: parting the Red Sea, providing manna, and bringing water from a rock. As we remember these events, our faith can also be strengthened, so that we can invite miracles into our lives.
“Remember This Day, in Which Ye Came Out from Egypt”
Passover represents not only miraculous deliverance, but prolonged discouragement leading to liberation. It represents not only escape from a devastating plague but also the end of the plagues. It reminds us that God is there, as we pass through difficult challenges, and that if we don't yet see Him acting on our behalf, we will.
“He Will Swallow Up Death in Victory”
Jesus explained to His disciples that Old Testament prophets had prophesied of Him. Abinadi taught that all prophets have spoken of Christ. This week, as we celebrate Holy Week, let's pay attention to ways in which Old Testament writings not only anticipated but also help us understand His atoning sacrifice.
“I Have Remembered My Covenant”
When the children of Israel prayed for relief as they suffered in slavery, God remembered His covenant with their ancestors. The Book of Mormon testifies that we never need feel isolated or rejected because God will remember His covenants.
“God Meant It Unto Good”
The reconciliation of Jacob's family is a powerful example of how ruptures can be healed and peace restored. At the end of his life, Jacob found joy in being with his children and grandchildren. Upon his death, he was gathered in burial with other family members: his parents, his grandparents, and his wife Leah.
The Lord Was With Joseph
Joseph’s name reflects two opposite Hebrew words: “to take away” and “to add.” His story demonstrates how God often brings addition through subtraction. Joseph was taken from his father so he could later save his family. Sometimes God removes blessings so He can give us greater ones.
Let God Prevail
With a name that means "the heel catcher," Jacob struggled his whole life to get ahead. At Peniel, God dislocated his hip with a touch and then blessed him anyway. Jacob learned that he could prevail by letting God prevail.
“Is Any Thing Too Hard for the Lord?”
Abraham trusted God's promise of posterity through many years of childlessness. When commanded to give up that long-awaited child, he obeyed. Jacob tells us that this willingness to surrender Isaac demonstrated Abraham’s faith. His belief was accounted for righteousness because it was manifest in obedience.