The Vision of Zion

I just received this newsletter from Brigham Young Academy.

On this day we honor the pioneers. They came here with a vision of building Zion.


In 2010, a revival of the spirit and mission of the pioneers is greatly needed. Joseph Smith taught, “We ought to have the building up of Zion as our greatest object. . . . The time is soon coming, when no man will have any peace but in Zion and her stakes.” (Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 3:390–91)

The vision of Zion encompasses all things, including education, family life, statesmanship--an entire culture. What would a Zion education be like? True education comprises our character, traditions, our all. In the last days, a Celestial vision of education has been restored through the Lord’s prophets. This vision runs counter to the secular world around us and the world’s philosophies of education. The need for this restoration perspective of education is growing more critical each day.

Can you feel it?  Can you feel the call of Zion?  Are you teaching your children about Zion?  Are you giving of yourself freely to others?  Are you living by the Spirit and by faith?

Plain and Simple

We recently finished reading 2 Nephi as a family.  The wonderful Isaiah chapters.  The great counsel from Lehi.  Warnings for us in our day.  One of my favorite scriptures:

They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.  2 Nephi 30:15

Then Nephi sums everything up.  He speaks plainly so there is no misunderstanding.  We must be baptized, receive the Holy Ghost, have unshaken faith in Christ, feast on the words of Christ, and pray always.
I have been pondering feasting, gaining soul nourishment from God's word.
In the end of 1 Kings, we get to read about Elijah.  What impresses me is his faith, the power behind those mighty miracles.  How much faith would it take to believe that birds will feed you for three years?  To raise someone from the dead?  To call down fire from heaven?  How do I develop that kind of faith?

Faith is like a little seed, if planted it will grow. (Faith, Children's Songbook)

We can begin with faith that doing the plain and simple things will bless our lives.  And as we feast on the words of Christ, we will receive His Spirit and His instruction for us, personally.