October 8, 2018
As time moves on more and more things in the Book of Mormon seem to have parallels to our times that did not seem to be as relevant a decade or two ago. Even when I read the Book of Mormon in my youth I had the impression that the events leading to the coming of Christ in the Americas was a pattern for events leading to His second coming.
Last year students at Peperdine University protested to have a statue of Columbus removed. The “Waves Against Columbus” protesters claimed the statue represents “a celebration of genocide and racial oppression.” This surely isn’t the way Columbus was represented in school when I was growing up and I’m saddened by the outlook of those who choose to focus on flaws rather than celebrate greatness.
Towards the end of President Nelson's conference talk “Joy and Spiritual Survival” he states, “If we look to the world and follow its formulas for happiness, we will never know joy. The unrighteous may experience any number of emotions and sensations, but they will never experience joy! Joy is a gift for the faithful. It is the gift that comes from intentionally trying to live a righteous life, as taught by Jesus Christ.”
My most recent reading of the the story of Alma and Amulek in the Book of Mormon was interesting because the parallels to our time are so strong. Like many of the people I talk to I am concerned for our country and our liberties. For me these concerns are reinforced when I hear conference talks or read church sponsored articles encouraging members to foster a culture of religious freedom.