Scripture: If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who
gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you.—James
1:5
 Reflection
A confused young boy looked to the scriptures for help and found this
passage in James. He went to the grove and prayed for direction. The
experience culminated in a vision that provided the direction he sought,
“This is my beloved Son, hear him.” This spiritual awakening for young
Joseph Smith led to a life of listening for the voice of Christ and the
founding of this denomination.
In the Temple, at the entrance into the worshiper’s path is a carved
glass representation of the sacred grove where Joseph first asked God what
church to join. Entering this portal of peace reminds us of the journey
each of us makes, walking the path of the disciple. Much like Joseph, we
approach the Divine, aware of our questions and ready to listen.
What causes the grove of trees to become a place of spiritual
awakening? There exists a peaceful calmness in the midst of the trees that
is found only in a sanctuary: the cooling shade of the surrounding trees;
the quiet, gentle sound of the wind in the leaves; and the sheltered,
protected feeling of the grove. No wonder it seemed to be a place where
one could meet God!
We start on the spiritual pilgrimage of this week by figuratively
entering the sacred grove, to discover what God has in mind for us.
Action
Talk with your family or others in your congregation about what World
Conference means to you and why it is so important to the life of the
church. If you are not able to attend World Conference yourself, invite
someone who is going to Conference, to eat a meal with you and your
family. During the meal, share with them your thoughts and prayers for
their preparations and any insights or discernment you have experienced in
your meditations.
Prayer
Visualize the grove of trees, and mentally seek sanctuary within them.
If you have trouble with the visualization process, try concentrating on
the sounds you would hear if you were in the grove: leaves fluttering in
the gentle breeze, insects buzzing nearby, and the occasional rustle of
foliage. Pray for all those seeking sanctuary, needing to hear words of
hope and healing. Ask God your questions and lift your sincere desires for
the World Conference in prayer. |
