And all they who suffer persecution for my name, and endure in faith, though they are called to lay down their lives for my sake yet shall they partake of all this glory.
Wherefore, fear not even unto death; for in this world your joy is not full, but in me your joy is full.Therefore, care not for the body, neither the life of the body; but care for the soul, and for the life of the soul. - D&C 101: 35-37.
There is a fervor in the air regarding the admonition from our prophet to "put our house in order." As I have thought about this, I am reminded of the furor that must have been in Nauvoo after Brigham Young announced plans for their imminent departure and the need for the Saints to be prepared in all things. Only a minority of the Saints were obedient to his counsel and had the provisions they would need for such a long journey.
Subsequently, those who were prepared were often asked to consecrate their food for the good of all. Consequently, suffering and hardship were endured by the prepared Saints as they helped their brothers and sisters.
My mind and heart filled with the thought that this could also occur in our time. For many years, we have been warned to have a year's supply of food, clothing, and where possible, fuel. But, only a minority are obedient to the prophet's counsel. I asked myself, "Is my heart big enough to watch my own family suffer so that I could share with those who are not prepared?" I could answer "Yes" that I would gladly share with new converts, neighbors, and those who had not been able to prepare. I could not truthfully answer "Yes" when confronted with sharing with those who had sat beside me in Church and heard the same message over and over, but chose to spend their money elsewhere. Confused and troubled, I finally fell asleep.
As I awoke in the morning, I opened my scriptures to study, and there before me was clearly the answer from the Lord. Of what importance is death? Of far greater importance is the eternal welfare of my soul! For though I have faith and hope, without charity, I am nothing. I must prepare not only my year's supply, but I must also prepare my heart to give to all who may stand in need. - Sherrie Wieland, Roseburg, Ore.
"Living by the Scriptures" is another in a series of Church News reader-response articles.
Send your submission to Church News, P.O. Box 1257, Salt Lake City, Utah 84110. Fax No. (801) 237-2524. Internet E-mail:churchnews@desnews.com.
