The Impossibility of Faith: Echoes of Mary's Obedience

The Saints in the South podcast recently revisited the familiar scriptures of Matthew 1 and Luke 1, focusing on the miraculous births of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ. It's a comfort, isn’t it, to dwell on these accounts, especially when facing challenges that feel insurmountable? The episode, and indeed these narratives themselves, serve as a potent reminder: with God, all things are possible (Luke 1:37). But the true power doesn't lie solely in recognizing the possibility, but in the response to that revelation – the “Be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38) of Mary’s acceptance.

Consider Joseph’s position. To be presented with the reality of Mary’s conception without his involvement, a circumstance that would rightly challenge any man’s understanding and instinct, demanded a faith surpassing reason. The podcast touched on the primal male instinct to protect and provide, and the inherent tension Joseph must have felt. Yet, he chose obedience. He chose to believe. This echoes the principle of covenants—the binding agreements made with God, often requiring us to act contrary to natural inclination. Joseph’s willingness, his acceptance of a divine plan beyond his comprehension, is a testament to his worthiness and a reflection of the covenants he held.

The modern revelation in Doctrine and Covenants 131 speaks powerfully of the relationship between covenants and the reception of divine power: “For if a man receiveth not the holy ghost, he is not a saint, for he is not of the Lord’s doing” (D&C 131:4). To receive the Lord’s doing, to be a partaker of His power, requires a similar willingness to submit—to say, “Be it unto me according to thy word.” This isn't a passive acceptance, but an active, deliberate choice to align our will with God’s.

The recent General Conference emphasized the importance of pressing forward in faith, even when the path is unclear. The metaphor of the iron rod, that straight and narrow path, comes to mind. It is not a passive stroll, but an active, intentional progression, requiring constant vigilance and a steadfast commitment to the covenants we have made. The births of John and Jesus were pivotal moments in the Restoration, and they serve as eternal signposts for those who seek to follow the iron rod.

The conversation in the podcast regarding families scattering West, Jacob heading to BYU, and a daughter preparing for a mission, speaks to the current generational shift within our congregations. These are trials of faith for parents, requiring them to trust in the Lord’s plan even when it pulls their children away. It’s a reminder that the Lord’s work moves forward, regardless of our personal desires or preferences.

Let us reflect on Mary’s response. Let us strive to emulate her unwavering faith and her willingness to surrender to the divine will. The seemingly impossible becomes possible not through our own strength, but through the power of covenants and the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Let us deepen our understanding of the covenants of the priesthood and their connection to miraculous blessings. Consider the role of Joseph in the divine plan and how his faithfulness echoes the principles of obedience and submission. How can we cultivate a spirit of “Be it unto me according to thy word” in our own lives, particularly when facing challenges that seem insurmountable?