The Voice in the Darkness: A Call to Gathering

There are moments in life when the world goes still, when the light seems extinguished, and a profound sorrow settles upon the soul. We’ve all felt it—a darkness that no fire can kindle, a grief that silences the heart. Remember the people of Nephi, the generations who waited for the promised sign? Samuel the Lamanite, standing on the wall, foretold the three days of darkness, a tangible manifestation of the Savior's sacrifice. And it came to pass, just as prophesied, a darkness so complete it swallowed the land.

They wept and mourned, feeling in their own hearts the weight of a death occurring across the sea. But from that abyss of despair, a voice pierced the gloom – the voice of a loving Father, calling to His children, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings. “How oft would I have gathered you, and ye would not.” It was a plea, an invitation to return, to lay aside the sacrifices of the past and embrace the true offering: a broken heart and a willing spirit.

This isn't merely a recounting of ancient history. It’s a mirror reflecting our own struggles. Each of us carries a personal darkness, a silent grief, a buried pain. There are roads lost, and moments when we feel utterly alone. But even in those darkest hours, that same voice echoes, reaching out to guide us home. It’s a voice that knows our low points, that sees our pain, and that relentlessly calls us back to the light.

The Stone cut without hands – the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – is built upon this foundation of prophecy and restoration. Like Ammon at the Waters of Sebus, we are called to stand firm against the currents of destruction and to build, to gather, to prepare the way. The builders are rising, and we see their efforts spreading across the globe. Consider the charity flywheel—your engagement here, your contributions, directly fund gospel advertising in places like Ghana, reaching hearts and minds that desperately need the message of hope. And the Missionary Fund fuels the tireless efforts of internet missionaries, digital striplings spreading the gospel across the digital landscape.

Outback Jack reminds us, “The Lord’s work is not done with preaching, it’s done with building.” (Alma 17:13) This isn’t about passive belief; it's about active participation in the gathering. It's about claiming our church on the map of churches, contributing our talents and resources, and becoming living stones in the edifice of Zion. It’s about embracing the courage challenge, armed with the five smooth stones of faith, hope, charity, repentance, and service.

Some may call this a “Mormon” perspective. But we believe this is a universal cry – a call to all who seek God, regardless of denominational marker. The spirit recognizes a heart that is willing to serve. We welcome all those who resonate with this spirit, those who understand the difference between builders and destroyers – those who are ready to stand with Samuel the Lamanite on the wall, proclaiming the truth and preparing the way for the Lord’s return.

Let us heed the call. Let us turn away from the darkness and embrace the light. Let us answer the question: “How oft would I have gathered you, and ye would not?” Let us, together, be the answer.