One By One

Every time I near the end of the Book of Mormon I eagerly anticipate reaching third Nephi when Christ appears to the people in the American Continent. It's like reading the best happy ending to an incredible story and I can't help but feel joy when I read in. This group of people had waited many years for the promised Messiah to come, and it is an emotional chapter to read when He finally does come and minister to this faithful group.

  As I was reading in 3 Nephi chapter eleven verse fifteen I was reminded of how Christ  ministers to "the one."

"And it came to pass that the multitude went forth, and thrust their hands into his side, and did feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet; and this they did do, going forth one by one until they had all gone forth, and did see with their hands, and did know of a surety and did bear record, that it was he, of whom it was written by prophets, that should come."

My religion professor pointed out through this verse that the Atonement is infinite (hence the word multitude) yet it is also intimate (the words one by one). Although Christ's sacrifice was for the entire world, it very personally connects the one. It connects to you and it connects to me. It is infinite, but it is also so intimate. Although there are billions of people to have walked the earth I know that the Savior very personally suffered for me. He knows me by name, He understands my struggles and hardships, He picks me up when I fall, and His love is always constant. He is my greatest source of joy. Every joy I have ever felt is because of Him.


I know that Savior did come to the American continent. He is no respecter or persons. He loves everyone regardless of ethnicity, geography, status, etc. I can't imagine how this group of people felt  as the glorified Savior stood before them, and I've often thought of how I will respond when I get to stand before the Savior.




Will I smile and hold His hands tightly...

 Will I embrace Him and let my heart do the talking...

Will I weep with Him as He holds me and I thank Him for all He has done for me...

I love my Savior.

I can only imagine what that beautiful day will be like. I know that my Savior Jesus Christ is the only person who has the capacity to love me perfectly and to save me. I know that even though at times you may feel like a number in this crowded and busy world, He knows you by name. He loves you. I know it, and I know He loves me because I feel that tender love daily. If you are struggling to find that love, pray to recognize it, because I know it is there. I know He ministers to each of us one by one and I am forever grateful for that simple truth.


There are not enough words I can adequately say to describe my feelings on this principle but I invite you to watch this short video that shows a depiction of this account. It has become one of my most favorite videos.  And always remember there is someone a lot greater who loves you deeply, perfectly, and infinitely. I'm grateful I was reminded of that this last week.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glQYsxJhv_E

To read the full account of this it is found in 3 Nephi chapters 11, 17. Or click the link below

https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/11?lang=eng