By Janné Grover, Council of Twelve Apostles

But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have died.

Anyone who intentionally hones a craft is familiar with the discipline of practice. As a music teacher, I reminded students often about how to practice with the phrase “speed follows accuracy.” Slow, intentional, accurate practice develops technique and muscle memory that frees artistic expression.

So, what does it mean to practice resurrection? It begins by recognizing the resurrection not as a one-time occurrence but as a way of living into God’s vision of new life. It is adopting regular and intentional practices of peace, reconciliation, and healing of the spirit, not for our own wellbeing alone, but as a way of freeing God’s vision of wholeness for the whole, inextricably connected world God loves.

1 Corinthians 15 explores the complexities of the resurrection, upholding it as both necessary and plausible. For Paul, this is a theological call to action as a new way of living in the present age grounded in God’s vision of the world as it can be. Practicing resurrection does not earn God’s grace; it is a way of being that creates space for the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, relationships, and communities.

Faithful disciples practice resurrection by engaging intentionally in the slow, transformative work of God. Practicing resurrection through daily disciplines of spiritual formation and compassionate action develops muscle memory of kindness, generosity, justice, reconciliation, and peacemaking that become the very nature of our human and collective being. This is not easy work. Scripture reminds us that “creating sacred community is arduous and even painful. But it is to loving community such as this that each is called” (Doctrine and Covenants 162:3c).

Author Richard Rohr affirms, “We can begin resurrection today by living connected to God. Resurrection happens every time we love someone even though they were not very loving to us.”

How do we create a world of God’s shalom? Practice, practice, practice…loving and living it into being.

Prayer Phrase

“We love because God first loved us” (1 John 4:19).

Spiritual Practice

Sea of Light

Quiet and center yourself. Ask for God’s healing and guidance as you enter this time of prayerful presence. Close your eyes, breathing deeply and calmly. Imagine you are floating in a beautiful sea of light that rises and falls with each cycle of your breath. The golden light of this sea buoys you up, so you float effortlessly. Waves of light carry and wash over you, bringing wholeness and peace. Rest in the sea of God’s love; then offer a prayer of gratitude.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.