This is definitely one of my favorite times of the year.
Mornings are cool, days are pleasant, and energy fills the air. Football is a big deal in my home, and it becomes an important family activity that brings us together often during this time of year. As my family grows and grandchildren make the scene, there are many activities that bring us together. One of the most significant is starting this weekend. More on that later.
I love to picture in my mind’s eye the people gathering to hear the words of King Benjamin. Mosiah describes the event this way:
King Benjamin addresses his people.
5 And it came to pass that when they came up to the temple, they pitched their tents round about, every man according to his family, consisting of his wife, and his sons, and his daughters, and their sons, and their daughters, from the eldest down to the youngest, every family being separate one from another.
6 And they pitched their tents round about the temple, every man having his tent with the door thereof towards the temple, that thereby they might remain in their tents and hear the words which king Benjamin should speak unto them;
7 For the multitude being so great that king Benjamin could not teach them all within the walls of the temple, therefore he caused a tower to be erected, that thereby his people might hear the words which he should speak unto them.
8 And it came to pass that he began to speak to his people from the tower; and they could not all hear his words because of the greatness of the multitude; therefore he caused that the words which he spake should be written and sent forth among those that were not under the sound of his voice, that they might also receive his words.
It is not difficult for me to imagine the people gathering to listen to the words of their beloved king. He labored constantly in their behalf. He counseled and guided them so they could be happy and fulfilled. He labored with his own hands that he could serve them and lead his people without burdening them with grievous taxes. And they responded in kind.
These few chapters include some of my favorite scriptures and a wealth of knowledge that is still pertinent and relevant today.
King Benjamin
Later Mosiah includes some of Alma’s words in his writing. Again, the powerful exhortations are some of my favorite in all of the scriptures, as these men proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, his Atonement, and its relevance to our lives, struggles, and potential in our day. Prophets proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ and pronounce his will and direction for each of us.
Take a minute to read it when you can. Mosiah 18: 8-9
During the next couple weeks, we have the opportunity to prepare to hear the words of the prophets destined to motivate, guide, and direct us through the struggles of family life, challenges that we all face, and obstacles of our day.
Unlike King Benjamin’s people, we won’t be pitching tents or traveling to the temple grounds, but very much like them we will be preparing our hearts and minds for great messages, gathering our families to hear the word of the Lord, and listening to or reading their messages from the comforts of our own homes for weeks, months, and years to come.
Yes. I love the imagery of pointing my home and family towards the temple of God and encouraging all who enter in at my door to be edified and lifted by the Oracles of God here on earth.
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It started this past weekend with the general women’s session for sisters ages eight and older. Then, this next weekend the general sessions will begin and the session for priesthood holders will be Saturday evening.
The culmination of conference sessions will conclude on Sunday, but the words of the Brethren will be recorded and disseminated, that we might remain in our homes and hear the word of the Lord which the apostles and prophets will speak unto us.
There is a lot more planned for the next two weeks and beyond, so start preparing now.
Fathers rally your families together for this important event.
We get to gather together to hear the words of God.
In 1989, Walter Penning formed a consultancy based in Salt Lake City and empowered his clients by streamlining processes and building a loyal, lifetime customer base with great customer service. His true passion is found in his family. He says the best decision he ever made was to marry his sweetheart and have children. The wonderful family she has given him and her constant love, support, and patience amid life's challenges is his panacea.
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