Stepping Out

We added some new Easter decorations to our home this year. Two are framed pictures that caught my attention in the store, because they both depicted Christ emerging from the tomb. One is a front view, and one is a rear view perspective.

I have seen many pictures of the empty tomb. I have seen many pictures of the Resurrected Christ appearing to his disciples, to Mary, etc. The "stepping out" part of the story has always just been implied until now.

The "stepping out" moment is one that is so dear to me, because it was that very moment when all of the things we suffer in mortality were rendered temporary. There is no sorrow, no disappointment, no sin, no illness, no pain, and no death that can't be overcome. He bore it all in Gethsemane. He died on Calvary. He was resurrected and fulfilled all that was required, so that the Atonement was completed. He has perfect compassion for all that we must endure, because He bore it personally. And ultimately, it all gets fixed someday. None of the messiness of life has to stick forever. We get relief from it someday. All of those pains were relegated to temporary status the moment Christ stepped out of that tomb and finished His work. It's an awesome moment to be captured by an artist.

As I was sitting among the bunnies and plastic eggs and grass - the other Easter decorations in our home - I was considering when I might finally take the time to pack up the box of Easter stuff and start setting out the summer decorations. But the "stepping out" pictures will remain on our walls as a comforting reminder of the very moment that gives comfort and relief to all that we must face.