My daughter came home from college a week ago and saw that I was reading The Lost Symbol, by Dan Brown. Actually, it was her book — she had received it as a Christmas present the year before. Having already read it, I asked her what she thought about the book. She said, “It’s good, but it gets kind of preachy at the end.” Now having finished the book, I think her assessment is right on the money. It is a page-turner, suspenseful, and full of interesting puzzles and clues, but it does lose steam at the end and, whether intentional or not, it seems the author tries to surmise his thoughts and feelings about religion. Granted, he tries to put a positive spin on his conclusions, he presents a number of proofs and evidences, and he states that the Bible is key to our salvation. However, I don’t agree with all his views.
One recurring theme throughout Mr. Brown’s book is that a shift in perspective can yield new light and understanding on our views of events or evidences. I couldn’t agree more, but I would counter that as far as his views of religion, I believe he could learn more in one hour with a couple of 19-year-old missionaries from the LDS Church than he seems to have garnered from years of study and research. He is close on several counts, but there always seems to be something missing from his conclusions. One of those conclusions seems to be equating Jesus Christ with Mohammed, Buddha, or several other spiritual teachers. Although Mr. Brown espouses the Bible as a key to understanding and enlightenment, it seems he misses the point of many of the testimonies, or testaments, that are shared in this holy and ancient book.
The Easter season is the perfect time to testify of the atonement and sacrifice of the Savior of the world, even Jesus Christ. Indeed, the empty tomb stands as a stark witness that He still lives today. From the hundreds of early saints who saw first-hand the resurrected Savior, to the Apostles and prophets in our day who have also seen Him, it is clear from my perspective that Jesus Christ is more than just an honored spiritual teacher. He is the Son of God, who sacrificed for all mankind that we may be able to return to live with our Father in Heaven one day. During this Easter season, please take a few minutes to follow the links below to some excellent videos that discuss the Savior’s sacrifice and resurrection. I am grateful for the Savior and appreciate all that He has done for me and my family, and one day, hopefully Mr. Dan Brown will see the light of the Savior and His gospel from a clearer perspective. Happy Easter.
His Sacred Name — An Easter Declaration
He Lives: Testimonies of Jesus Christ
© Copyright 2012 Jeff, All rights Reserved. Written For: Jeffrey Olsen