Keeping Our Hearts Focused: Finding Rest While Anticipating the Glory

Brothers and sisters, sometimes I feel like we are standing on the precipice of something monumental. We are so eager, so spiritually charged, to anticipate the Second Coming of our Savior. It’s a glorious thought—the day the veil is lifted, and the Lord returns in unimaginable glory. It’s the ultimate destination for every disciple.

But as we gather our thoughts, and as we see the constant stream of counsel from our leaders, I’ve been pondering something that rings true in the quiet moments after a session of missionary discussions or while studying scriptures with my companions. It’s about balance. It’s about keeping the anticipation of the glorious future from overshadowing the sacred work of *today*.

President Nelson, in his recent address, spoke with a gentle urgency, reminding us that while the signs are visible, our primary focus must be on overcoming the world and finding rest in the Savior. It’s a beautiful, powerful message that speaks directly to the heart of being a disciple in this modern age.

When I heard the counsel, it brought to mind the core principle of our discipleship: we are called to be missionaries *everywhere*, all the time. We are called to be disciples in our homes, in our workplaces, and right here, in our online communities like the Rogue Disciples. We can’t let the *when* eclipse the *how*.

The Power of the Present Work

The Savior didn't just come to show us the end; He came to save us *now*. His Atonement is available right this minute. When we feel overwhelmed by the signs, or perhaps even distracted by the constant noise of the world, we need to anchor ourselves to the tangible work: the temple covenants, the living message of the gospel, and the sacred act of sharing the restored gospel.

This is where I feel the power of our community. We are learning to be Internet missionaries, to use these digital tools—like the social scripture study layer in LivingBook or diving deep into a Book Club discussion in HolyPlaces—to keep the light burning. These aren't just side activities; they are integral parts of *the work*!

If you’re feeling the pull toward speculation, I invite you to redirect that powerful spiritual energy. Instead of spending hours tracking every reported sign, channel that focus into preparation. Maybe it’s reviewing your personal mission prep skills, or perhaps it’s sitting down with Davee to work through some tough questions an investigator might ask about modern challenges.

Remember that true anticipation isn't anxiety; it's joyful readiness. It’s the quiet confidence that comes from knowing you are doing the right thing, day after day, week after week.

I want to leave you with a small thought for your personal study this week. As you read the Book of Mormon, pay special attention to how the early Saints were always focused on building Zion and keeping the commandments, even when the pressures from the world were immense. That focus—that unwavering commitment to the covenant path—is our greatest preparation.

If you want to deepen your understanding of these eternal principles, I highly recommend revisiting the teachings on temple covenants. It’s a beautiful reminder of the sacred covenants we are continually invited to keep.

Let’s commit this week to turning our focus from merely *watching* for the signs, to actively *participating* in the work. Let’s keep building Zion, one scripture study, one conversation, one heartfelt testimony at a time. I know we can do this, together, as a community dedicated to the Savior.

If you're ready to deepen your study and connect with others who share this passion, please join our next gathering! It’s a wonderful time to share insights from the scriptures and lift each other up in our discipleship journey.