Next year

This Passover week, I've been feeling more deeply the final blessing spoken during the seder: Next year in Jerusalem. Next year, may we partake of this meal together, gathered as a scattered people. Timeless words for our times!

We were going to have the elders over for Easter. Instead I dropped off some food we had not touched in plastic shopping bags for them to cook, along with some candy. Next year, may we partake of this meal together.

I usually have some hand in preparing an Easter program for church. I love the music of Easter - half mourning the sacrifice that was made last night in Gethsemane and today in Calvary, half rejoicing for the coming of Resurrection Sunday morning. This year I've asked my brother to sing something over Zoom while our families gather for some hope and testimony. Next year, may we partake of this music together.

Our family is safe and well provided. We have abundance and health. Yet today is a day of fasting, praying for deliverance for all people from another plague, and our children's greatest concern is missing their friends. I miss teaching seminary, being with them. Next year, may we partake of classes together.

During His Last Supper, though, our Savior did not talk of next year. He told them He would not be there next year - that He would not partake of this meal until He comes again in glory. He spoke of a peace that passes understanding - a peace that comes during times of trial even when the trial isn't immediately removed. He spoke of showing love to all and being as unified with each other as He and the Father are one. May we be just a little better at that. Next year, may we partake of life together and be one.