Friday, April 18 (Good Friday)

By Peggy Michael of Cantonment, Florida, USA

You who fear the Lord, praise him! All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him; stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel! For he did not despise or abhor the affliction of the afflicted; he did not hide his face from me, but heard when I cried to him.

—Psalm 22:23–24

It was I, my redeeming Lord, who touched your garment. Yes, I—soiled with sin, reaching for you—pure and holy. I considered turning away and hiding in the crowd. But when my eyes met yours, I knew you cared as no physician had before. You did not hide your face from one in need.

Later, as you hung dying, the thick gray clouds shed tears while the Earth sobbed violently, shaking its massive shoulders. Darkness swallowed up the wailing people, and we cried out, “Is light banished forever?”

Anguish consumed us.

A timid ray pushed through the storm clouds. Another and another burst on us, and we rejoiced. We then knew God’s love had penetrated the world’s most frightful storm.

Though dark sin cost you your life, you loved us still and set us free. So what can we do but hurry and tell the suffering world, so it, too, may cast its burden below your wounded feet?

Prayer for Peace

God of the rising sun, touch your holy flame to us, that we may kindle others. Rest your Spirit on us that we may share your peace.

Spiritual Practice: Invite People to Christ

Read and reflect on Doctrine and Covenants 162:3b and 163:2b. Pray to be aware of people who might be receptive to, and therefore blessed by, your sharing of the message of the Living Christ. Imagine being in relationship with them and inviting them to Christ. In preparation, discover your personal testimony of Christ. “Be persistent in your witness and diligent in your mission to the world.” Repeat this mantra throughout the day: “Christ’s mission, our mission, my mission.”

Peace Covenant

Today, God I will not turn my face from one in need of the good news.