When the Veil Thins: Lessons in Faith from Lorenzo Snow and Ella Jensen

Sometimes, the greatest testimonies aren't found in the quiet moments of study, but in the dramatic, breathtaking moments where the veil between worlds seems to thin to nothing. Reading accounts like Ella Jensen’s journey—a young woman who spoke of messengers and journeys beyond—it’s impossible not to feel the weight and the wonder of the Spirit at work.

It speaks to a profound truth that we, as Latter-day Saints, are taught to live with: that the promises of the Gospel are real, and that the power of faith, coupled with the saving ordinances of the priesthood, can touch the very boundaries of life and death. When we study these accounts, we aren't just reading history; we are being gently prompted to examine the promises we hold in our own hearts.

The Echoes of Prophecy and Promise

What strikes me most when I read of Lorenzo Snow's patriarchal blessing is the weight of the promises given. To be blessed with the potential to restore the sick, to heal, and even to raise the dead—it's a testimony in itself of the power inherent in the covenant path. These aren't just stories; they are echoes of the eternal potential available to those who keep the commandments and press forward in the work.

Ella’s experience, coupled with the record of her uncle Hans appearing, paints a picture of a deep spiritual reality that transcends the physical. It makes you pause and think: What promises have I been given? What covenants am I currently living into?

A Bite-Sized Skill for Our Internet Missionaries

As we all know, we are called to be Internet missionaries—disciples anywhere, all the time. When you encounter a question from an investigator that seems too profound, too miraculous, or too difficult to answer in the moment, remember the power of redirection. Instead of trying to answer the deepest theological question immediately, pivot back to the source of the power: Christ. If they ask about the dead, talk about the Atonement. If they ask about miracles, talk about the Spirit. Keep pointing them back to the Savior.

This principle—always pointing back to the central figure of Christ—is what the Iron Rod authors teach us to do. It grounds the extraordinary in the eternal, making the message accessible even when the testimony feels overwhelming.

Gathering Israel: It’s About Love, Not Contention

The video itself frames this beautifully: "Put on Christ’s armor and help gather Israel—with love, not contention." This is the guiding principle for every disciple, whether we are in the MTC, serving in a stake center, or simply having a discussion with a neighbor.

The work of gathering Israel is not a task for a select few; it is the calling for every member. It requires the humility to listen, the courage to share, and the persistent love to follow up. It reminds me of my own early days; I felt so overwhelmed by the sheer scope of the work. But I learned that the Spirit guides the *next* step, not the whole journey. Trust the Spirit, and trust the process.

Where to Go From Here

If these stories have stirred your spirit, I encourage you to deepen your understanding of how the Spirit testifies of these things. Have you explored the concept of spiritual realms in LivingBook? It’s a wonderful place to connect with others who are studying similar concepts.

For those of us who are actively preparing for the field, I highly recommend spending time with **Davee** this week. Ask him to role-play a difficult question an investigator might ask about the nature of the afterlife, and let him walk you through how to answer it with grace and doctrinal depth. It’s invaluable practice for our missionary discussions.

And if you’re looking for community study, check out the HolyPlaces section to see if there is a local Book Club or Bible Study Group meeting soon. Let’s keep the momentum going!