Today we had a zoom Sunday School meeting with Brother Larry Juarez. I loved it. It’s interesting to me how humble COVID has made the gospel feel. Nobody wants to meet via Zoom. That’s not at all what we want, but I can’t help but be so inspired and overcome with love for the members of this church who do it anyway. We are all sacrificing. Now is a time for sacrifice. Now is the time to show our love and dedication to the Lord. We are being tested and pressed, and … weeded out. I hate to say it that way, it scares me, but it is true. We will not be allowed to idly sit on the sidelines any longer. Some will rise and some will fall, but nobody will stand still.
I couldn’t help but notice the urgency in the messages of our last General Conference. The timing of it all (COVID, the Joseph Smith Bicentennial, the Hosanna Shout etc) seems too divine to consider a coincidence. At that time, the General Presidency and speakers sat calmly in much more humble circumstances than usual and delivered their messages of truth and hope. I remember feeling like I was witnessing a moment in time that I had little idea of its actual significance. There was much more to it than my mind could comprehend, the Spirit testified of that.
I thought of that conference today as I listened to Truman G. Madsen, in his book, “Joseph Smith the Prophet,” describe the Hosanna Shout given at the dedication of the Kirtland temple. He mentions the significance of pleading for God to save us through the shout, and also how it is a beckoning of the Lord. I recalled the image of President Nelson waving his handkerchief and thought, “The prophet is calling for the Savior to come.” That thought makes me ask myself, “Where am I in my progression? Am I ready?” I’m not there yet. I need to step up my game. My heart is right, but my discipline is sometimes poor. There is more I can do and give still. I want my focus and preparations to be centered on the Lord.
I am so grateful for the guidance of a living prophet and the reassuring hope that he offers through his knowledge and direction.
Forever grateful.
