His Path – April 16, 2000
If we rate the importance of historical events by how much they impact the world and for how long the impact lasts, we would have to rank the life of Jesus Christ as one of the greatest of all events. Even two thousand years after He lived, scholars still study the words He began to teach when only twelve years old. But even more significant, common people all over the world still study His words and long to know more about His teachings.
Jesus has also inspired some of the most beautiful art, music, and literature the world has ever known. Those who have stood before Michelangelo’s Pietà and beheld the majesty of the work are touched by more than the incredible craftsmanship. Somehow we know that even depicted in death He represents life, and so it’s His life that we remember. Perhaps that’s why Michelangelo depicted Mary—one arm straining to bear the weight of her Son, the other stretched out inviting us to behold, to believe, to come to Him. The scene reminds us of His instruction: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”1
But even more than in the great art of the world, we see the impact of Jesus Christ’s life in the people who live His teachings. Two thousand years after the time He walked the earth, people are still following in His footsteps, doing the things He taught them to do. Reports of the compassionate deeds of Mother Teresa and others like her touch us and in the very telling bring to mind the One who said, “Love one another, as I have loved you.”2
Many of us have been strengthened by such persons—normal, everyday people who do something for us that we cannot do for ourselves. They cheer us. They encourage us. They teach us. They help us in times of need. These people walk the path Jesus taught them to walk, and they continue to impact the world with His goodness. More than the Bible studies, more than the great art, their very deeds cry out to those around them, “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; [He has] overcome the world.”3
Program #3687
1. Matthew 11:28.
2. John 15:12.
3. John 16:33.