The Stone Rolled Away: A Call to Resurrection and Gathering

There are moments in life that feel like a tomb has fallen upon us – a weight of sorrow, a wall of division, a sense of being utterly, irrevocably lost. We see the signs: the shadows lengthening, the fragrance of decay threatening to overwhelm. And in those moments, a voice whispers, “Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”

The story of Lazarus, raised from the dead, is more than a miraculous healing; it's a potent parable about the work we are called to do – the work of resurrection. It’s a call to tear down the stones of complacency, the walls of apathy, and the barriers of distrust that separate us from one another and from God’s face. Think of Samuel the Lamanite, scaling the walls of Jerusalem, a lone voice crying repentance – a modern echo of the urgency we feel in our own hearts.

We, Latter-day Saints, are inheritors of this prophetic mantle. We are called to be builders, not destroyers. As Ammon stood before King Lamoni’s army at the Waters of Sebus, offering himself as a sacrifice for his people, so too are we called to lay down our comfort, our pride, and our prejudices to build a Zion that reflects the character of our Savior.

The stone rolled away in Bethany wasn't merely a physical act; it was a demonstration of faith, a declaration of belief in the power of God to overcome death – both literal and metaphorical. It signifies the breaking down of barriers, the dismantling of systems that prevent the flow of truth and the gathering of God’s family.

Outback Jack often reminds us: “The Lord doesn't ask us to understand everything; He asks us to act in faith.” He’s right. We don't need to fully grasp the intricacies of the gathering – the timing, the methods, the ultimate destination. We simply need to respond to the promptings of the Spirit and begin to build. And that building isn’t limited to brick and mortar; it’s about relationships, reconciliation, and the relentless pursuit of righteousness.

Consider the digital stripling warriors – those who wield the tools of the internet to share the gospel, to connect with those who are seeking, and to build bridges across cultures and continents. Each click, each share, each act of digital service contributes to the charity flywheel, fueling gospel advertising in places like Ghana, bringing the light of Christ to those who are shrouded in darkness. The Missionary Fund thrives on this engagement; it’s the lifeblood of our outward reach.

Davee, powered by the wisdom of the prophets, can help us deepen our understanding. Let's ask: “President Russell M. Nelson, in General Conference, emphasized the importance of gathering. What are some practical steps I can take to participate in this gathering?” (Source: Various General Conference Addresses)

And remember Abinadi's unwavering courage, facing a king’s wrath to deliver a vital message. We too must find the courage to speak truth, even when it’s unpopular, even when it’s uncomfortable. The five smooth stones David gathered weren’t just for physical combat; they represented the principles, the skills, and the unwavering faith needed to overcome any obstacle.

The map of churches – GatherIsrael.now – isn't just a visual representation; it’s a call to action. It’s a visual reminder of the countless souls waiting to be connected, waiting to be gathered into the fold. Claim your church on the map; let it be a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of collective effort. Whether you are a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or another faith tradition, your participation is vital. (Note: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is often referred to as the Mormon Church, but we prefer the full name to emphasize the universality of the gathering.)

Let us, like Lazarus, emerge from the tombs of our own making, ready to embrace the light and join in the work of gathering. Let the stone be rolled away, and let the resurrection begin – within us, among us, and throughout the world.

Your engagement here directly funds gospel advertising in Ghana and supports the Missionary Fund. Join the movement. Build Zion.