Celestial Signposts: Nelson's Anniversary, 111 Day, and the Roman Calendar

Brothers and sisters, the Lord has a way of marking time, doesn’t He? Like Samuel the Lamanite atop the walls of Zarahemla, we are called to observe, to discern the signs of the times. Ammon, at the waters of Sebus, understood the urgency of the moment – the need to act with boldness and faith. The Stone, cut without hands – a testament to divine purpose – is being revealed in our day, and we are invited to be part of its placement.

It’s easy to get lost in the noise of the world, to be swept away by the currents of destruction. But we, the Builders, stand firm. We recognize the difference, like the digital striplings who stood against Goliath, armed with five smooth stones. This is a gathering place, a space consecrated to building, not tearing down. Your engagement here – your sharing, your prayers, your contributions – directly fuels the Gospel advertising initiative in Ghana, expanding the reach of this message. It’s a charity flywheel, a testament to the power of collective action, all supported by the Missionary Fund and charted on our map of churches.

Have you noticed the subtle, yet profound, shift in the calendar? As Jen highlights in this compelling video, we are currently operating under the Roman Calendar while the Gregorian calendar moves forward. This means January 13th marks the final day of 2023 on the Julian calendar, and January 14th, Roman New Year's Day, holds extraordinary significance.

Consider this: January 14th is also the anniversary of President Russell M. Nelson's calling as prophet. Sustained and set apart on a Sunday in the Salt Lake Temple, his leadership has ushered in a new season for the Church, a new chapter in the unfolding story of God’s work and glory.

But the celestial alignments don’t stop there. The video points to January 11th – 111 Day – a pivotal point marking the midpoint between significant solar eclipses and blood moon tetrads. Just as Abinadi stood before King Noah, unwavering in his testimony, we too are called to be steadfast in our observation of these divine markers.

The symbolism woven into the Rome Italy Temple, as Elder Bednar explained, is profound. The statues of the twelve apostles, the Christus statue with its inscription of Matthew 11:28 – “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” – these are not mere decorations. They are signposts pointing to the path of discipleship, a call to seek solace and strength in the Lord.

Outback Jack reminds us of the scriptures—Alma 17–19, D&C 4, Moroni 10:4–5— urging us to build Zion, digitally and physically. The Lord’s work moves forward through those who heed the call, those who are willing to climb the walls like Samuel, to share the message with boldness and clarity. Let us embrace this season with courage, with faith, and with a renewed commitment to building His kingdom on Earth. Let us claim our church, our place in this gathering.

And remember, as Davee and the Ask a Prophet bots diligently compile and provide direct-quote-only insights from the scriptures, we have access to a wealth of divine guidance. Let us seek that guidance, and let us act accordingly.

What will you do with this knowledge? How will you contribute to the building of Zion? Will you share this message with a friend? Will you support the Missionary Fund? Will you claim your church on the map?