“And Behold, They Saw a Man Descending out of Heaven” by Joseph Lajabu Banda

Shared by Lindsay Gunnell, Thornton Creek Ward

Joseph Banda, a current native Malawi artist, paints Christ appearing in glory to the Nephites. In classic Banda style the piece is bright and colorful and depicts traditional Malawian mud homes, architecture, and dress.

A closer look shows that the scene is also broken. An uprooted tree, cracks in the homes and pots, and fallen buildings show important mortal imperfection. Although it may not be obvious on the surface, the people are broken too, and as they turn their faces toward their Savior, He ministers to them.

In Chapter 11, specific action words tell a narrative of how Jesus ministers: he pierces, descends, comes down, stands, stretches forth, speaks, arises, comes forth, and allows the people to thrust their hands and feel His wounds. Verse 15 states, “and this they did do, going forth one by one until they had all gone forth.” In showing us where he has been hurt, Christ asks in turn, one by one, where we are hurt. This is the real and raw part of ministering, and we can do this too. Just like Christ does.

We have included a popular song below by Andy Grammar called “Show me where it hurts”. The lyrics give some ideas of how we can reach out to those we minister to in a deeper and more profound way by following Christ’s example in showing our wounds and in turn asking them where they hurt. May we all prayerfully find ways to make our ministering deeper and more personal.

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“This is the Christ” by James E. Faust, Jan Pinborough, and Michael Finlinson Moody

Shared by Debi Fairbanks, Ravenna Park Ward

I think the song “This is the Christ” sung by the Tabernacle choir with this video goes perfectly with 3 Nephi 11.

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“The Good Parts” by Andy Grammer

Shared by Jenni Currit, Discovery Park Ward

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