The “In Between”
Vickie Hollomon-Slappey of Braselton, GA, USA
These are portentous times. The lives of many are being sacrificed unnecessarily to the gods of war, greed, and avarice. The land is being desecrated by the thoughtless waste of vital resources. You must obey my commandments and be in the forefront of those who would mediate this needless destruction while there is yet day. -Doctrine and Covenants 150:7
I am writing this on Holy Saturday, April 11, 2020. My first waking thought this morning was that we are in the “in between.” As I pondered, I realized that we know something about this particular day that Jesus’ apostles did not. Have you ever wondered what they were thinking and feeling the day after the crucifixion of Christ? I suspect their inner dialogues sounded something like this: “I thought He would change things. Was He really our Messiah? What do I do now? I have been abandoned. Hide.”
The apostles did not yet understand that Jesus was behind the scenes, accomplishing great things in the spiritual realm while they hid in confusion mourning their loss. Stuck “in between” their darkest day and greatest miracle.
Holy Saturday is the day before our Easter celebrations. However, this year is uncommonly different. This year many of our churches are closed as the world battles a pandemic known as COVID-19. This year fear can easily replace our joy. Today many of our inner dialogues sound like this: “What if… What if I get sick? What if my child or loved one falls ill? What if I lose my job and cannot provide for my family?”
But just like the apostles, we do not know what Jesus is doing behind the scenes this very day. One thing I do know-it is something great! That is something to celebrate every day of the year! When you find yourself in the “in between” of any given situation remember you have a Savior who has promised to never leave you stranded there. Hang on to His promises and He will give you peace. His peace surpasses all understanding. Yes, peace be with you.
Prayer Phrase
Let your world of beauty capture me.
Spiritual Practice
Growing a Gracious, Generous Heart
Open your heart to God’s grace and generosity with a “breath prayer.” Let your breathing slow and deepen. Be aware of God’s breath moving in and out of your heart. Spend several minutes focusing on breathing in God’s generosity. With each breath, silently name one gift for which you are thankful. Let your heart expand to contain God’s gracious outpouring of love. With each breath out, name one gift you want to share from the overflow of your heart.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
