Have I done any good in the world today?
Have I helped anyone in need?
Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?
If not, I have failed indeed.
LDS Hymns, no. 223
Friday, October 03, 2025
Prophets in Jerusalem
Witnesses Before Christ’s Return
Introduction
Among the many prophecies concerning the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, one of the most striking is the account of two prophets who will minister in Jerusalem during the last days. This prophecy, found in the Book of Revelation, has been affirmed by latter-day prophets and apostles as a literal event that will unfold before Christ’s return in glory. Their ministry, death, and resurrection serve as a final witness to the world of the power of God and the truth of His Son, Jesus Christ.
The Scriptural Prophecy
The Apostle John recorded in Revelation 11:3–12 that two special witnesses will be raised up in Jerusalem. They will prophesy for 1,260 days, perform miracles, and testify of Christ with divine authority. Despite their power, they will eventually be slain, and their bodies will lie in the streets for three and a half days. Then, in a miraculous display, they will be resurrected and ascend into heaven in full view of their enemies.
The most direct prophecy comes from the New Testament:
John the Revelator describes “two witnesses” who will prophesy in Jerusalem for 1,260 days (about 3½ years).
They will have power to perform miracles, call down plagues, and testify of Christ.
Eventually, they will be slain by their enemies and their bodies will lie in the streets of Jerusalem for 3½ days.
After this, they will be resurrected and ascend into heaven, striking fear into those who see it.
Teachings from Modern Prophets
Latter-day Saint leaders have taught that these two witnesses will be real prophets, not symbolic figures. Joseph Smith testified that John’s vision would be literally fulfilled in the last days (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 286). Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained that they will be “raised up to the Jewish nation” and will have power to withstand armies until their appointed mission is complete. President Spencer W. Kimball likewise confirmed that their ministry would serve as a powerful testimony to the Jewish people and the world.
Bruce R. McConkie (Apostle, Mormon Doctrine)
He taught that these two witnesses will be “two prophets” raised up to the Jewish nation.
They will be given power and authority to prophesy and to testify of Christ during the final great siege of Jerusalem.
Their ministry is a fulfillment of the prophecy in Revelation 11.
Joseph Smith (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 286)
He linked the prophecy to the last days in Jerusalem, noting that these events are literal and will occur before Christ’s return in glory.
Elder Bruce R. McConkie (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, Vol. 3)
He clarified that they are not symbolic figures, but real prophets, called of God, who will minister in Jerusalem.
Their martyrdom and resurrection will serve as a final testimony to the Jewish people and the world before the Lord’s coming.
President Spencer W. Kimball
He also confirmed that the two witnesses are real prophets, not figurative representations, and their ministry will demonstrate God’s power over nations and armies.
Lessons for Today
While the prophecy points to a future event, it also reminds us of the Lord’s pattern: He sends prophets to bear witness of His Son and prepare the world for His coming. The ministry of the two witnesses highlights the courage required to stand for truth, the certainty of opposition, and the ultimate triumph of God’s power. For believers today, their example can strengthen faith in Christ and increase readiness for His return.
Conclusion
The prophecy of the two prophets in Jerusalem stands as one of the most dramatic events leading up to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Their testimony, their sacrifice, and their miraculous resurrection will serve as a powerful witness to all nations that the Lord’s promises are sure. As we study their role, we are reminded to remain steadfast in our own discipleship, preparing our hearts for the day when Christ will come again in glory.
Keywords: prophecy, witnesses, Jerusalem, Second Coming, resurrection
In September 2025, tragedy struck members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, when a shooting and fire disrupted a Sunday service. What could have been remembered only as a moment of violence has instead become a powerful testimony of faith, forgiveness, and the presence of miracles. Survivors, leaders, and members of the community have shared stories of blessings and lessons that emerged in the aftermath—reminders that even in darkness, light can break through.
Forgiveness in the Moment
One survivor, who saw her father being shot, described an extraordinary moment as she looked directly into the eyes of the man who killed him.
“I forgave him, I forgave him right there … I saw into his soul. I never took my eyes off his eyes … He let me live.” (CBS News)
Her ability to extend forgiveness, even as she faced life-threatening danger, has been described by many as nothing short of miraculous.
Leaders Witness Miracles
Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles visited Michigan shortly after the tragedy. He said he saw “the mighty and many miracles that occurred during this episode.” He praised members’ capacity to remain “firm and steadfast,” noting that their resilience was both a blessing and an act of divine strength.
Compassion Beyond Expectations
Acts of compassion also stood out. David Butler, a fellow church member, raised over $300,000 to support the family of the gunman. When asked why, he explained simply, “It was actually pretty simple … Jesus tells us that we should do this.” His choice to serve the shooter’s family embodied forgiveness and Christlike love in action.
Strength in Community
Bishop Jeffrey Schaub, who leads the local ward, emphasized how deeply he felt the prayers and support from others:
“It is the most significant time in my life where I have felt the love and prayer of other people … It was very humbling to see how much good there is in the world today … above all, we are all children of the same Father in heaven.”
His words reflected the healing power of unity and shared faith.
Conclusion
The Michigan tragedy could have left only scars of grief. Instead, it is remembered by many as a moment when miracles, compassion, and the Savior’s love were evident. From forgiveness in the moment of pain to leaders bearing witness of blessings, these stories remind us that even in suffering, God’s hand can bring healing and hope.
Growing Grace by Grace: A Summary of Doctrine and Covenants 93
Introduction
Doctrine and Covenants 93 is one of the most profound revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants. It opens a window into the eternal nature of God, Christ, and humankind. In it, the Lord explains how Jesus Christ Himself progressed “grace for grace” until He received a fulness of glory, and how we, as His children, are invited to follow the same path. This section also defines truth and light, speaks about the eternal nature of intelligence, and reminds leaders and parents of their responsibility to teach their families.
The Nature of Christ and Humanity
Christ’s progression: Even Jesus Christ did not receive a fulness of glory at once but received “grace for grace” until He attained the fulness of the Father (vv. 12–14, 16–20).
Pattern for us: The same process applies to humanity—we too may receive grace for grace and grow until we receive a fulness (vv. 19–20).
Eternal intelligence: Humanity is co-eternal with God; intelligence was not created nor made, neither indeed can be (v. 29).
The Light of Christ: Every person is given a portion of God’s light, which enlightens conscience and guides us toward truth (vv. 2, 23, 36).
Truth, Light, and Glory
Definition of truth: Truth is knowledge of things “as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come” (v. 24).
Connection to light: Light and truth proceed from God, filling the immensity of space and giving life and understanding to all things (vv. 29–30, 36).
Gaining and losing light: Those who keep God’s commandments receive more light and truth, while disobedience and false traditions cause them to lose it (vv. 27–28, 39).
Counsel to Leaders and Families
Parental responsibility: Parents are commanded to bring up their children in light and truth (v. 40).
Specific counsel: Early Church leaders such as Frederick G. Williams, Sidney Rigdon, Joseph Smith Jr., and Newel K. Whitney were directly admonished to set their families in order and teach them righteousness (vv. 41–50).
Principle for all: No stewardship is greater than guiding one’s family in truth and light (vv. 43–50).
Conclusion
Doctrine and Covenants 93 teaches that progression is eternal (vv. 12–20), truth is eternal knowledge (v. 24), and every soul can receive more light through obedience to God (vv. 27–28, 36). By following Christ’s example, we too can grow “grace for grace” until we inherit a fulness of His light and glory. This section not only lifts our vision toward divine potential but also grounds us in the daily responsibility of teaching and nurturing truth within our families (vv. 40–50).
Keywords: light, truth, glory, progression, family
President Nelson and his great-granddaughter - LDS Photo
President Nelson’s Invitation to Charity and Virtue to Prepare for the Second Coming
By John Fisher (assisted by AI)
In his April 2025 General Conference address, President Russell M. Nelson delivered a powerful and personal message titled “Confidence in the Presence of God.” With clarity and love, he reminded members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that true confidence—especially in approaching our Heavenly Father—comes not from worldly accomplishments, but through charity, virtue, temple worship, and covenant keeping. In a world shaken by hostility, fear, and confusion, President Nelson offered a Christ-centered path to spiritual confidence and peace.
Summary:
President Nelson acknowledged the ongoing progress and strength of today’s rising generation, sharing a tender experience with his great-granddaughter that prompted deep reflection on faith in Jesus Christ. He emphasized that confidence before God is available to all who earnestly live the gospel and seek the Savior. Drawing upon the Lord’s counsel in Doctrine and Covenants 121, President Nelson taught that charity and virtue are the spiritual keys to confidence before God.
He reiterated his previous call to be peacemakers, denouncing contention in public and private dialogue. Charity, he declared, is the “foundation of a godly character.” Virtue, likewise, transforms our thoughts and uplifts our minds. Time spent in the temple increases our spiritual strength, enhances both charity and virtue, and prepares us for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
Five Powerful Quotes:
1.“When we make and keep covenants with God, we can have confidence that is born of the Spirit.”
2.“Charity and virtue open the way to having confidence before God.”
3.“Contention prevents the Holy Ghost from being our constant companion.”
4.“Virtue will drive away those thoughts. Virtue will free you from anxious, troublesome thoughts.”
5.“As we diligently seek to have charity and virtue fill our lives, our confidence in approaching God will increase.”
Conclusion:
President Nelson’s message is a clarion call to discipleship rooted in the Savior’s love and purity. In a time when moral clarity and spiritual peace are under siege, we are invited to intentionally cultivate charity and virtue. By doing so, we increase our confidence before God, prepare for the Savior’s return, and serve as instruments of peace in a turbulent world. His promise is both personal and universal: with spiritual preparation, our joy, faith, and divine power will grow beyond our greatest hopes.
Suggestions for Follow-Up:
1.Reflect on your personal level of confidence in approaching God. What might be hindering it?
2.Study Doctrine and Covenants 121:45–46 and journal ways to apply it in daily life.
3.Choose one way each week to demonstrate charity in your home, church, or online interactions.
4.Commit to weekly temple attendance or temple preparation efforts.
5.Pray specifically for the gift of charity and increased virtue in your thoughts and actions.
Reference:
Nelson, R. M. (2025, April). Confidence in the presence of God. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/04/57nelson?lang=eng
Keywords:
charity, virtue, confidence, temple worship, Second Coming
A Pioneer’s Legacy of Faith, Sacrifice, and Compassion
By John Fisher (assisted by AI)
Mary Reeder Hurren Wight (July 29, 1848 – January 27, 1937) was a courageous pioneer, beloved mother, and enduring example of faith through adversity. Born in Linstead Parva, Suffolk, England, Mary was the eldest daughter of James and Eliza Reeder Hurren. In 1856, at just eight years old, she traveled with her family to the Salt Lake Valley as part of the ill-fated Willie Handcart Company—a journey that became one of the most harrowing in the history of the Latter-day Saint migration.
Artist Julie Rogers has beautifully captured a moment from pioneer history in her painting of Mary Hurren and her friend Agnes Caldwell walking hand in hand across the plains. The two young girls would hold hands and jump together as they traveled. In one memorable episode, they encountered rattlesnakes on the trail. Agnes later recalled that it felt like they were jumping for more than a mile to avoid the snakes. Miraculously, they remained unharmed. As Agnes recorded in her account, “Due to the protecting hand of the Lord, we were not harmed.”
I grew up hearing stories about Mary from my Uncle David Hurren Jeppson, her grandson. He often shared with us the hardships Mary endured as a member of the destitute Willie Handcart Company. Both the Willie and Martin Companies faced early winter storms as they crossed the plains of Wyoming, leading to immense suffering and loss. When rescue teams finally arrived from Salt Lake City, the survivors were filled with joy and relief. Mary later described the scene: “Tears streamed down the cheeks of the men, and the children danced for joy. As soon as the people could control their feelings, they all knelt down in the snow and gave thanks to God.” Of the approximately 1,100 people in the two companies, more than 200 died during the journey.
One of the most striking parts of her story was how she suffered severe frostbite during the trek. Her feet were so badly damaged that doctors considered amputation. However, her father refused to allow it. Instead, he used natural remedies, including beef poultices and sweet oil. These treatments saved her feet, though she lost her toes and suffered the effects of her injuries for the rest of her life.
Mary and her family arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in November 1856 after being rescued. In her journal, she later wrote about that miraculous moment when help finally came. Her words remain among the most moving accounts of the handcart experience:
“Tears streamed down the cheeks of the men, and the children danced for joy. As soon as the people could control their feelings, they all knelt down in the snow and gave thanks to God.”
After recovering from her injuries, which took years, Mary settled in Brigham City, Utah. She was baptized at age 13 and married Joseph Moroni Wight in 1864 at the age of 16. Together they raised thirteen children and built a home known for its kindness and hospitality.
Mary never turned away someone in need. On one occasion, when a stranger’s child was seriously ill, she took the child in and cared for it until its passing. When offered money, she simply said, “Doors were made to let people in.”
Mary lived a life of service, resilience, and deep testimony. She was proud to have met every president of the Church except Joseph Smith and was visited on her 88th birthday by President Heber J. Grant. Mary passed away in Salt Lake City on January 27, 1937, and is buried in Brigham City.
Her life and legacy, passed down through stories by her descendants like Uncle Dave Jeppson, continue to inspire with messages of faith, compassion, and gratitude in adversity.
Lessons about the Savior from the Handcart Companies
Image:history.lds.org
The Ultimate Rescue:
How the Atonement of Jesus Christ Saves Us
By John Fisher (assisted by AI)
In his April 2025 General Conference address, Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles delivered a powerful message titled “The Atonement of Jesus Christ Provides the Ultimate Rescue.” Drawing from pioneer history, sacred temple experiences, and personal reflections, Elder Cook reminded listeners that amidst life’s storms and sorrows, Jesus Christ offers the only true and eternal rescue—through His Atonement.
Summary
Elder Cook centered his message on the incomparable saving power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Using the dedication of the Casper Wyoming Temple as a backdrop, he reflected on pioneer stories, especially the heroic rescue of the Willie and Martin handcart companies. Their suffering and eventual salvation mirrored our own spiritual journey—riddled with adversity but redeemable through Christ. Elder Cook reminded us that while mortal life contains pain, loss, and unfairness, the Savior’s Atonement offers healing, hope, and joy. He issued three calls to action: help rescue others spiritually and physically, accept the Savior’s Atonement with gratitude and optimism, and make time to reflect on His sacrifice—especially through temple and sacrament attendance.
Five Quotes from the Talk
1.“As we turn to Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, He rescues us from the storms of life through His Atonement.”
2.“All must pass through a refiner’s fire, and the insignificant and unimportant in our lives can melt away like dross and make our faith bright, intact, and strong.” – President James E. Faust
3.“We must never forget the sacrifices and examples of prior generations, but our adulation, appreciation, and worship should be centered on the Savior of the world and His atoning sacrifice.”
4.“The Atonement provides hope and light at a time that for many seems dark and dreary.”
5.“The key to the Father’s plan of happiness is the Atonement wrought by our Savior, Jesus Christ.”
Conclusion
Elder Cook’s message is both timeless and timely. It invites us to trust in Jesus Christ as the source of true rescue—not only from sin and death but from daily discouragement and sorrow. Just as rescuers saved pioneers stranded in harsh winters, the Savior stands ready to lift us from spiritual and emotional storms. His Atonement isn’t a distant theological concept; it’s a deeply personal act of love. By embracing that love, we find purpose, strength, and peace.
Suggestions for Follow-up
1.Reflect weekly on the Atonement of Jesus Christ during sacrament meetings or in personal study.
2.Visit the temple regularly if possible, and consider ways to extend the blessings of the Atonement to deceased ancestors.
3.Study pioneer stories to draw strength from the faith and endurance of early Saints.
4.Perform acts of rescue by ministering to those in need—physically, emotionally, or spiritually.
5.Keep a gratitude journal focused on ways the Savior has rescued you personally.
In his April 2025 General Conference address, “Eternity’s Great Gifts: Jesus Christ’s Atonement, Resurrection, Restoration,” Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles delivers a tender and powerful message about the depth of the Savior’s love. He helps us see that through Jesus Christ, we receive eternal gifts—peace, transformation, and a deep sense of belonging. Elder Gong draws on personal experiences, scriptural testimony, and global perspectives to invite each of us to embrace the Savior’s life-changing grace.
Summary:
Elder Gong’s message centers around the three eternal gifts of Jesus Christ: His Atonement, His Resurrection, and the Restoration of His Church. Through stories of sorrow and joy, he reminds us that Jesus understands our tears—whether of grief or joy—and is with us in our most vulnerable moments. The Savior weeps with compassion, just as He rejoices in our faith and spiritual victories.
Elder Gong shows how these divine gifts bring healing to our relationships, freedom from sin, relief from perfectionism, and restoration of all that was lost or broken. He weaves global experiences and scriptural connections, including insights from Easter, Passover, and the Restoration on April 6, to show how these events converge in eternal harmony. His message reminds us that we all share divine identity and a common invitation to come unto Christ.
Five Quotes:
1.“When our tears flow, we sometimes apologize, embarrassed. But knowing that Jesus Christ understands life’s pains and joys can give us strength beyond our own.”
2.“In all good things, Jesus Christ restores abundantly—not only what was but also what can be.”
3.“Easter in Jesus Christ helps us mend, reconcile, make right our relationships, on both sides of the veil.”
4.“Because God our Father loves all His children in every age and land, we find His loving invitation to come find peace and joy in Him in many traditions and cultures.”
5.“We rejoice in the garments of salvation and the robe of righteousness. We shout, ‘Hosanna to God and the Lamb!’”
Conclusion:
Elder Gong’s message is one of profound hope. No matter our circumstance—grief, regret, separation, or yearning—we can find peace in Jesus Christ. His Atonement heals, His Resurrection gives hope beyond death, and His Restoration opens the way for every soul to receive eternal blessings. Christ understands our human experience and walks with us, helping us become whole.
Suggestions for Follow-Up:
•Reflect on times when you felt the Savior near during personal sorrow or joy. Write them down and consider sharing your testimony.
•Read John 11 and 3 Nephi 17 to feel Christ’s compassion and presence in times of weeping and rejoicing.
•Attend the temple or prepare to go, remembering the eternal joy of being with loved ones.
•Share Elder Gong’s talk with a friend or family member who may need reassurance of Christ’s love and the promise of restoration.
•Consider how the Restoration blesses your daily life and renew your covenant commitment through prayer and scripture study.
Keywords:
Atonement, Resurrection, Restoration, Easter, Jesus Christ
Teaching Our Children to Believe, Belong, and Become
They brought their little children - by Walter Rane
By John Fisher (assisted by AI)
Introduction:
In a world filled with distraction, doubt, and digital noise, Sister Amy A. Wright’s April 2025 General Conference message, “Thou Art the Christ,” reminds us that nothing matters more than teaching children to know, follow, and become like Jesus Christ. As First Counselor in the Primary General Presidency, Sister Wright offers powerful insights on how belief, belonging, and becoming form the foundation of lifelong discipleship—and how we can help children walk that path with purpose and joy.
Summary of the Talk:
Sister Wright begins with a touching story about her son Eli, whose passion for law—and for the Lawgiver, Jesus Christ—grew from a young age. His courageous testimony of Christ in a secular law school interview, and the unexpected outcome, set the stage for the talk’s central message: children must be taught to believe in Jesus, belong to His Church, and become like Him.
1.Believe – Children need more than just stories about Christ; they need to see, hear, and feel His presence in their daily lives. Testimonies, sacred images, and experiences with the Holy Ghost help children truly know Jesus Christ.
"I invite you to ponder what this can look like in the life of young children. Do they hear testimonies of Jesus Christ and His gospel? Do they see reverential, worshipful images of His ministry and godhood? Do they feel and recognize the Holy Ghost testifying of His reality and divinity? Do they know of His message and mission?"
2.Belong – Through covenantal belonging, such as baptism and Church membership, children are strengthened by sacred promises and community support. Parents and leaders play a vital role in preparing them for that path.
"How can we help children make and keep sacred covenants? In the Come, Follow Me manual, in appendix A and B, we find conversation starters and lessons that will empower families and support teachers and leaders in their sacred responsibility to prepare children for a lifetime on God’s covenant path."
3.Become – Children are not passive disciples. They are invited to act, to lead, to testify, and to grow into the likeness of Christ. We must guide them with love and give them opportunities to serve and shine.
"When we tell our children we love them, are we also telling them that their Father in Heaven and Savior Jesus Christ love them? Our love may comfort and inspire, but Their love can sanctify, exalt, and heal."
Five Inspiring Quotes from the Talk:
1.“The archetype of morality I strive to pattern my life from is that of Jesus Christ.”
2.“We want our children to believe in Jesus Christ, belong to Jesus Christ and His Church through covenant, and strive to become like Jesus Christ.”
3.“As Jesus Christ becomes the focus of our lives, what we desire, and how we desire it, is forever altered.”
4.“Without Jesus Christ there is no power to change, no purpose to aspire to, and no reconciliation of the travails of life.”
5.“This Jesus … [is] a glorified, omnipotent, resurrected, exalted, worshipful, powerful Only Begotten Son of God, who is mighty to save.”
Conclusion and Suggestions for Follow-up:
Sister Wright’s message is a clarion call to parents, teachers, and leaders: start now. Don’t wait to help children develop a relationship with Jesus Christ. Begin with small but meaningful actions:
•Share your personal testimony of the Savior regularly.
•Display reverent images of Jesus in your home.
•Read from the scriptures as a family, focusing on His words and works.
•Use the Come, Follow Me manual (Appendices A and B) to create simple, Christ-centered lessons.
•Give children meaningful roles in family home evenings, sacrament talks, and service opportunities.
Let us teach our children not only about Christ but to truly know Him. In doing so, we fulfill our divine responsibility and give them the greatest gift possible: the Light of the World.
Keywords:
Jesus Christ, children, discipleship, covenant, faith
Wright, A. A. (2025, April). Thou Art the Christ. General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/04/32wright?lang=eng
