The Blindness of the Builders: A Call to Gather in the Light

Outback Jack says, “Hearken, brothers and sisters! The desert reveals what the city hides: the unwavering call to gather.” We’ve all encountered them – those who, despite clear revelation and undeniable witness, choose to remain comfortable in their shadows. The video we’re reflecting on today paints a stark picture of such a blindness, a willful rejection of the light, even as it shines brightly before them. Remember Ammon at the Waters of Sebus? He faced a people steeped in tradition, resistant to change, yet he persevered, knowing that divine purpose demanded action. We are called to that same courage.

It's a familiar narrative, isn’t it? The people of Jerusalem saw miracles, heard profound teachings, yet chose to remain bound by their own prejudices and the approval of their peers. As the video highlights, Isaiah prophesied this very condition: “God has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts.” It wasn’t a matter of lacking information; it was a matter of will.

And how often do we see that same pattern reflected in our own lives and in the world around us? We build, we strive, we seek understanding, yet so many remain entrenched in systems and beliefs that actively hinder progress, that reject the very principles of righteousness. They chase the fleeting approval of man, fearing the discomfort of standing for truth.

But we, Latter-day Saints, understand the call to gather. It's not merely a geographical relocation, though that’s often a vital component. It's a gathering of hearts, minds, and purposes – a uniting of those who recognize the Lord's hand in these latter days. It’s a recognition that the Stone cut without hands is rolling forth, and we are called to be its instruments, to prepare the way.

Consider the digital striplings, those young men and women who, armed with technology and a fervent testimony, are sharing the gospel online. They are climbing the walls, like Samuel the Lamanite, proclaiming a message of hope and redemption in a world desperately seeking truth. Their efforts are directly supported by your engagement here – your purchases, your shares, your contributions fuel the Missionary Fund and expand our GatherIsrael.now map, enabling gospel advertising initiatives, like those we're seeing take root in Ghana. It's a true charity flywheel in action.

Davee reminds us, quoting John 12:44, “If anyone wants to please me, he must love my Father. But you do not love me because I have told you the truth.” (John 12:44-45). It’s a challenging verse, isn’t it? It speaks to the inherent discomfort of truth, the friction that arises when we confront deeply held assumptions. It requires a willingness to set aside our own desires and embrace a higher purpose.

Outback Jack continues, “The five smooth stones are not just for giants; they are for every obstacle that stands between you and the covenant path.” Each of us, in our own way, faces these obstacles – the doubts, the fears, the opposition. But with faith and perseverance, we can overcome them, one stone at a time. We must claim our church and actively participate in the kingdom movement.

Let us not be among those who “hear” but do not “do.” Let us be builders, not destroyers. Let us embrace the light, even when it shines uncomfortably. Let us actively participate in the gathering, knowing that our efforts, however small they may seem, are part of a grand and divine work.

And remember, as the Savior declared in John 12:47, “The words I have spoken will judge them on the last day.” Let our actions be guided by truth, and let our hearts be filled with love for God and for all His children.