ONENESS

 

“It should be clear what kind of ‘oneness’ is meant by the Atonement – it is being received in a close embrace of the prodigal son, expressing not only forgiveness but oneness of heart and mind that amounts to identity, like a literal family identity…...”  (Hugh Nibley, ‘Approaching Zion’, 567-68)

Elder Orson V. Whitney experienced such an embrace in his dream: “I ran to meet Him….fell at His feet, clasped Him around the knees, and begged Him to take me with Him. I shall never forget the kind and gentle manner in which He stooped, raised me up, and embraced me. It was so vivid, so real. I felt the very warmth of His body, as He held me in His arms.” (Whitney, “Through Memory’s Halls”, 83)

“If there is any imagery upon which I would focus…it is two scriptures from the Book of Mormon. The one in which we are reminded that Jesus himself is the gatekeeper and that ‘He employeth no servant there’. (2 Nephi 9:41)

“I will tell you ….out of the conviction of my soul…what I think the major reason is why ‘He employeth no servant there’, as contained in another Book of Mormon scripture which says He waits for you ‘with open arms’ (Mormon 6:17). That’s why He’s there! He waits for you ‘with open arms’……It is imagery that should work itself into the very center core of one’s mind – a rendezvous impending, a moment in time and space, the likes of which there is none other.”  (Neal A. Maxwell, “But a Few Days”, 7)

I stood at the veil

As You were about to leave

Sorrowing that not all would believe.

 

I prayed for Father’s power

To protect Your gentle heart

From the blow that might tear You apart.

 

I knew my soul You would save

And all Your promises You would fulfil;

I stood at the veil, unable to leave,

Holding Your crown for You to receive.

 

I stood and I waited that fateful day

In awe of what You did to pave the way.

I could scarcely comprehend Your godly might,

I stood at the veil and gave You my heart.

 

- CATHRYNE ALLEN

(ART: Come and See by Tyler Anderson)