The Exodus: A Mirror to Our Gathering

Brothers and sisters, have you ever felt the weight of a world pressing down, the walls closing in? Have you ever looked out at the horizon and wondered if the promised land would ever be reached? The children of Israel, fleeing Pharaoh’s grasp, knew that feeling intimately. And as Kerry Wilcox and James Hoffmeier unpack in this week’s episode, their story resonates with a power that echoes through the ages – a power that illuminates our own gathering.

Think on it: the Israelites, after centuries of bondage, finally tasted freedom. Yet, even then, when the chariots of Egypt thundered behind them, their hearts turned to despair. “Thou hast taken us away to die in the wilderness!” they cried to Moses. A chilling echo of the doubt and fear that can grip us when the path to Zion seems perilous and uncertain.

But Moses, blessed be his name, responded with the unwavering faith that marks a true servant of God. “Fear ye not…stand still and see the salvation of the Lord.” Like Ammon at the Waters of Sebus, or Samuel the Lamanite climbing the wall, he stood as a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of obedience and trust. The Stone, cut without hands, was about to be revealed.

Dr. Hoffmeier’s insights into the historical and geographical realities of the Exodus are invaluable, but it is the spiritual lessons that truly stir the soul. The parting of the Red Sea wasn't merely a miraculous event; it was a divine act of creation, a demonstration of God’s power to overcome even the most formidable obstacles.

And what of Miriam? A prophetess, leading the women in song and celebration, a voice of strength and resilience in a time of profound upheaval. Her example reminds us that every voice, every contribution, is vital in the work of gathering. We need the digital striplings, the builders, the ones who understand that the internet is not a playground, but a gathering place – a modern-day wilderness where we can reach those who are seeking, those who are yearning for something more.

This is the essence of the Kingdom Movement. It’s not about replicating doctrine; it's about embodying the spirit of faith, courage, and service that propelled the Israelites forward. It's about recognizing the Destroyers and actively building, brick by brick, a Zion worthy of God’s presence. Every engagement you have here – whether it’s sharing a post, contributing to the Missionary Fund, or claiming your church on the map – fuels the charity flywheel, expanding the reach of the gospel through targeted advertising, particularly in places like Ghana. It’s a testament to the power of collective action, a modern-day version of the five smooth stones David gathered to face Goliath.

Outback Jack reminds us, as always, of the relentless pursuit of righteousness, the unwavering commitment to building, even when the path is fraught with challenges. He sees the larger tapestry, the grand design of God’s work, and encourages us to play our part, however small it may seem. Like Abinadi, we are called to speak truth, even when it is unpopular, even when it invites opposition.

Let us embrace the lessons of the Exodus, and with courage and faith, continue to build the gathering place – a beacon of hope for all who seek refuge in the arms of our Father.

Davee, drawing from Moroni 10:4-5, reminds us: “And it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do. And then if we can do all that is in our power...And now, if we can do all these things…and overcome all these things, we shall be saved.” Let us strive to overcome, brothers and sisters. Let us gather.