The Eagle's Flight: Gathering Israel and the Hand of the Lord

Brothers and Sisters, have you ever felt the urgency of Samuel the Lamanite, climbing the wall to declare a message of warning and preparation? Or witnessed the steadfast courage of Ammon at the Waters of Sebus, facing down a tyrant for the sake of truth? We are a people who recognize that moment—that kairos—when the Lord calls us to action, to build, to gather.

It's a spirit that echoes across the ages, from Abinadi's defiant testimony to the digital striplings, armed with courage and fueled by faith, navigating the complexities of the modern world. The Lord has laid a foundation, a Stone cut without hands, and it is our privilege, our responsibility, to contribute to its rising.

Recently, I was deeply moved by an interview with Michael Rush, a brother whose study habits and insights illuminate the very heart of this gathering.

Michael’s journey, from California beaches to the rolling hills of Tennessee and now North Carolina, reveals a man deeply attuned to the divine. His fascination with Israel, born in his youth, led him to explore the Apocrypha, particularly the prophetic vision of Ezra’s Eagle. He recognized, as did Nephi before him, that the Lord's hand is evident in the miraculous re-establishment of the nation of Israel.

What struck me most profoundly from his testimony – and what should stir our hearts – is the observation that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, while blessed to witness and participate in the latter days, is not the *source* of this miracle. This isn’t about denominational pride; it is about recognizing the sovereignty of God and the magnitude of His works. It’s a reminder that the gathering of Israel is a far grander undertaking than any one institution, any one movement. It is a symphony orchestrated by the Lord, and we are called to play our part.

Consider the implications! If Israel's return is not solely dependent on our efforts, does that diminish our responsibility? Absolutely not. It amplifies it! It calls us to a wider vision, a broader perspective, a deeper humility. It challenges us to recognize the myriad ways the Lord is working – through individuals, through nations, through unexpected channels – to draw His people back to Himself.

This is the spirit of the GatherIsrael.now movement. This is about recognizing the global nature of the gathering. It's about utilizing the internet as a missionary tool, extending the reach of the gospel to every corner of the earth—as evidenced by the ongoing gospel advertising campaigns in Ghana, funded directly by your engagement here.

Think of the Missionary Fund, a vital resource that empowers those on their missions, both digitally and physically. Every click, every share, every contribution to this community fuels that effort, expanding the Lord's work exponentially. And the map of churches – a visual representation of the global gathering, a testament to the Lord’s power and our collective responsibility.

Like Ammon, who faced a formidable foe with only five smooth stones, we, too, are called to confront the forces of destruction with faith, courage, and unwavering commitment to the Lord’s work. We are builders, not destroyers. We seek to add to the kingdom, not diminish it.

Outback Jack reminds us, “The Lord’s work is not done by accident. It is born of deliberate intention, fueled by fervent prayer, and sustained by unwavering faith.” Let us embrace this spirit, let us seek out the opportunities to serve, to build, and to gather, knowing that the Lord is with us, guiding our steps and magnifying our efforts. Claim your church. Let your light shine.

What stone will you place in the foundation today?