June 23, 2019
Each phrase cadence features accented, resolving non-harmonic tones, except for the penultimate phrase which lands on an unadorned and shortened 2-beat chord, ushering the singers into the final, resolving phrase 'con moto'. By shifting freely between relative minor and major tonalities (e-minor / g-major) the music reflects the mix of poignant emotions we feel when contemplating the sufferings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and what it all means to us. --Michael Whatcott, Composer
We ached as Christ atoned for us, so thankful each new day,
In glory to the Father, He partook and finished true.
May we in faith be strong like Him, and trust in God we pray,
And keep commandments and the laws, exactly and anew.
We grieved as Christ was mocked by men, so glad He did not cease,
In power they shall see Him , coming in the clouds above.
May we each look to His return, to live with Him in peace,
And focus on eternal life, and how He showed pure love.
We hurt as Christ was crucified, but cheer for what it meant,
In mercy He forgave them all, they knew not his true way.
May we repent of all our sins, the reason He was sent,
And nourish soul and body too, improving every day.
We wept as christ was laid to rest, but joy in His rebirth,
The resurection and the life, though dead yet shall we live.
May we obey and serve our Lord, and prove it while on earth,
And bow the knee in thanks to Him, for all that He did give.
-Dirk Whatcott
Doctrine and Covenants 19:16-19
16 For behold, I, God, have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent;
17 But if they would not repent they must suffer even as I;
18 Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit--and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink--
19 Nevertheless, glory be to the Father, and I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of men.
Matthew 26:64
64 Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
Luke 23:34
34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
John 11:25
25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.
-Michael Whatcott