Scripture
Lift up your eyes and fix them on the place beyond the horizon
to which you are sent. Journey in trust, assured that the great and
marvelous work is for this time and for all time.—Doctrine
and Covenants 161:1a
 Reflection
World Conference begins on Saturday. Church leaders from around the
world have already arrived in Independence, Missouri, USA, to attend the
International Leaders Meeting. Others are setting affairs in order,
preparing to leave home. Others are using the church’s Web site to glean
the most up-to-date information about the Conference. And still others are
preparing video projectors and personal computers to be able to view the
World Conference sessions online. The preparation and pilgrimage continue
throughout this week.
Pilgrimage is defined as: “1. A journey to a sacred place or shrine. 2.
Any long journey or search, especially one of exalted purpose or moral
significance” (American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language,
1970).
Both as a church and as individuals we are called to pilgrimage, to
walk in the way Christ not only showed us but which in reality he was….
True pilgrims will always walk in the tension between the already here
and the not yet.... We hope in that journey to discover the richness of
diversity centered in a common allegiance to Christ and learn how to
join the daring of the settler to the daring of the wanderer. That is
the journey that is home.—Velma Ruch, Summoned to
Pilgrimage: The Temple as Focus of a Pilgrim People, pp. 9, 12, 14.
The 2007 World Conference stands ready to welcome pilgrims home—in
person or through the Internet.
Action
Consider the experience of being away for an extended period of time.
What are some positive things about being away? What are some negatives?
How do you feel when you begin to prepare for the trip “home”? What is it
about “home” that makes you yearn for it? How might World Conference
represent “home”? Draw a picture of your version of “home” (be sure to
involve children).
Prayer
Pray for World Conference pilgrims, whether literal travelers or
supporters. Give thanks for your spiritual home.
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