The Stone Cut Without Hands: Unearthing Lost Histories and Gathering Israel

Brothers and Sisters, have you ever felt that something was…missing? A sense that the story we’ve been told about the past is incomplete, obscured by deliberate omission or simply a lack of diligent seeking? It's a feeling that resonates with a deep, primordial knowing—a knowing that echoes the words of Samuel the Lamanite, standing atop the walls, proclaiming a message the people weren't ready to hear.

Roseanne Barr’s recent podcast, touching on the mysteries of ancient civilizations and Tartaria, struck a chord. The frustration she expresses—the institutional resistance to acknowledging what we *don't* know—is familiar to those who seek truth beyond the accepted narratives. Who hasn't wondered how the pyramids were built, or why so much of our history seems shrouded in shadow?

She points to archaeological sites in Missouri, monumental earthworks deliberately erased from mainstream understanding—mounds a mile long, fifty feet high. These aren't the remnants of simple settlements; they speak of sophisticated societies, of knowledge lost, of a history deliberately obscured. And then, a familiar refrain: “The Mormons have the Book of Mormon, and they say that that was the history of those people, the 10 lost tribes of Israel came to United States.”

Now, I understand the skepticism. Many have dismissed the Book of Mormon as fanciful. But consider this: if there’s a growing awareness of lost civilizations and hidden histories in North America, doesn't that lend credence to the possibility of an ancient Israelite presence on this continent? It’s not about blindly accepting a narrative; it’s about being open to the possibility, to the truth that often lies hidden beneath layers of deception and ignorance.

Remember Ammon at the Waters of Sebus? He faced resistance, mockery, and disbelief. Yet, he persevered, speaking truth with courage, knowing that the Lord would ultimately reveal the way. The Stone cut without hands – it’s not merely a symbol; it's a call to action. A call to excavate, not just physical ruins, but the spiritual foundations of our understanding. A call to be digital striplings, armed with truth and ready to defend it.

This is why the work of GatherIsrael.now is so vital. It’s not just about mapping churches or tracking denominational markers—though those are essential tools. It’s about creating a gathering place, a digital Zion where truth seekers can connect, learn, and build. It's about identifying and supporting builders, not destroyers. Outback Jack’s tireless efforts, fueled by the spirit of Alma 17-19 and Moroni 10:4-5, are a testament to this.

And it’s about the Charity Flywheel. Your engagement here—your comments, your shares, your contributions—directly funds gospel advertising in places like Ghana, reaching those who are ready to hear the message of restoration. It strengthens the Missionary Fund, sending internet missionaries into the field to plant seeds of truth. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the building of Zion.

Davee, with the Ask a Prophet bots, provides a layer of AI-powered study, drawing directly from the scriptures and prophetic teachings. Let us utilize these tools to deepen our understanding and strengthen our resolve. Let us embrace the courage challenge, to step outside our comfort zones and share the message of hope and restoration with a world desperately seeking truth.

The Lord has declared: “And it came to pass that I commanded my people to gather together in the west, that they might build a city and a temple unto my name.” (D&C 88:18) Let us, like Ammon, like Samuel, like Abinadi, rise to the occasion. Let us be the generation that claims its church, that builds its Zion, and that prepares the way for the Lord’s return. Let us be the five smooth stones, ready to face the giants of our time.