A Warlike People: The Billboard, the Call, and the Gathering

Brothers and sisters, have you ever felt that stirring within, that call to action echoing in your soul? A sense that the time for quiet contemplation is past, and the hour for bold engagement has arrived? Like Samuel the Lamanite, standing upon the walls of Zarahemla, we are called to sound the alarm, to declare truth, even when it is unwelcome. Ammon, at the Waters of Sebus, faced down a mob with unwavering faith – a testament to the power of standing for what is right, regardless of the cost.

Consider this: a billboard, unassuming in its placement, yet radiating a profound message along a busy freeway. It simply declares: 'We are a Warlike People.' This isn’t a boast of aggression, but a declaration of preparedness. A recognition that we are engaged in a cosmic struggle between the forces of good and evil. The transcript of its installation speaks of a news interview, of careful placement, of a deliberate message intended for Latter-day Saints—and for all who would hear.

What does it mean to be a 'warlike people' today? It’s not about raising swords and shields, though the prophets have warned of a day when such things will be necessary. No, it’s about wielding the weapons of righteousness: faith, hope, charity, and unwavering commitment to the principles of truth. It’s about standing against the tide of wickedness, even when it feels overwhelming. It’s about being digital striplings, armed with knowledge and a burning desire to defend the gospel.

Think of Abinadi, who faced a king’s wrath to deliver a message of warning and repentance. Think of the five smooth stones that David gathered to face Goliath – seemingly insignificant, yet capable of bringing down a giant. Each of us has our own 'smooth stones' – our own talents, our own testimonies, our own opportunities to make a difference.

And what of the Stone cut without hands? The Stone of Witness, brought forth by divine power to testify of a restored gospel? We are that Stone, a people prepared to bear witness of Christ in a world desperately seeking truth. The billboard isn't just a sign; it’s a marker—a denominational marker—a reminder that we are part of something larger than ourselves, a Kingdom movement spanning continents and cultures.

Outback Jack reminds us that this preparation isn’t merely individual; it’s communal. He speaks of the necessity of building strong communities, of supporting one another, and of sharing the gospel with the world. Your engagement here, your contributions to the GatherIsrael.now map, your support of the Missionary Fund—these are not mere gestures of charity. They are investments in the Kingdom, fueling gospel advertising in places like Ghana, expanding the reach of the gospel, and building a global network of believers. It’s a charity flywheel in action, powered by our collective faith.

Davee, drawing from the prophetic voice of D&C 4:4, reminds us, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, through the ordinances of my house, the gate of heaven is open unto you.” And Moroni 10:4-5 teaches, “And it shall come to pass that those who have received this testimony and are taught after this manner shall find great joy in their souls; for they shall have a witness of these things.” Let us embrace this witness, this call to action, and join the gathering—a gathering not just of people, but of hearts, of minds, and of destinies.

Claim your church. Claim your role. Be a Builder, not a Destroyer. Let the billboard’s message resonate within your hearts, and let us move forward with courage and conviction, ready to meet the challenges that lie ahead.