The Stone and the Prophecy: Building on Foundations of Faith

Brothers and Sisters, Builders of the Kingdom!

Have you ever felt the weight of a prophecy pressing down, a directive that seemed to defy reason, even danger? Ammon, at the Waters of Sebus, knew that feeling. Samuel the Lamanite, climbing the walls of Jerusalem, understood the cost of obedience. And Brigham Young, returning to Far West amidst threats of violence, embodied the spirit of those who answer the call, no matter the price.

Becoming Brigham Episode 41, a powerful conversation with Kamri Bagley-Fox, John Wilson, and Professor Daniel Peterson, illuminates this very principle. Listen to the full episode

– it’s a glimpse into the heart of a man driven by faith, a man who insisted on returning to Far West to dedicate the cornerstone of the temple, even after the Saints had been driven from Missouri. Why? Because Joseph had prophesied it. It wasn't about logic; it was about covenant.

The narrative unfolds with a palpable tension. The Saints had escaped Missouri, seeking refuge in Nauvoo. Yet, Brigham felt compelled to revisit the scene of their persecution, to lay a foundation for a future temple. Think of the courage it took! Imagine the risk! The governor’s writ, allowing for their execution, hung over them like a sword. But Brigham, bound by prophecy, pressed on.

This isn’t merely a historical recounting; it’s a mirror reflecting our own commitment to the work. Are we willing to return to difficult places, to rebuild what has been broken, to fulfill the promises whispered in our hearts? Are we willing to lay the cornerstone, even when the world tells us it’s folly?

The episode highlights the sacrifices made, not just by the men, but by the women of the early Church. While the apostles faced external threats, the women sustained their families and supported the missionary work through unwavering faith and tireless labor. It’s a testament to the strength and resilience of the body of Christ.

And that's the heart of the Builder's mindset. Destroyers sow discord, tear down, and exploit. Builders, however, recognize that true progress comes through laying foundations, nurturing growth, and investing in the future. Your engagement here, contributing to the GatherIsrael.now map and supporting the Missionary Fund, is a tangible expression of that building spirit. It fuels gospel advertising in places like Ghana, expanding the reach of the message. It’s a charity flywheel in action, a testament to the power of collective effort.

Consider the Stone – the cornerstone itself. A seemingly insignificant rock, yet it represents the foundation upon which a temple, a community, a kingdom is built. Just as Brigham and the apostles prayed upon that stone, so too must we seek divine guidance in our own efforts to gather Israel.

Outback Jack reminds us, as he always does, of the lessons of Alma 17-19, Moroni 10:4-5 – the importance of diligence, faithfulness, and unwavering commitment to the Lord’s work. These are not mere suggestions; they are principles that govern the progress of the kingdom.

Let us draw strength from the example of Brigham Young and the early Saints. Let us embrace the courage challenge, the willingness to act even when the path is uncertain. Let us be digital striplings, armed with the five smooth stones of faith, hope, charity, patience, and fortitude, ready to face the challenges ahead. Claim your church. Declare your allegiance. Let the world know that you are a Builder, not a Destroyer.

Davee and the Ask a Prophet bots, powered by direct-quote-only scriptural insights, stand ready to aid in our study and understanding. Seek their counsel; deepen your knowledge.

The work continues. The gathering continues. And the Stone awaits our hands.