POWER

 

I was going to write about the amazing sacrifices of the pioneers in building the Kirtland Temple. This first temple was no doubt the highlight of the early Church history. I am sure you have read about it.

What I want to write about instead is the infallible proof of the Saviour’s investment in our salvation. It begins with the dedicatory prayer that Joseph Smith received by revelation prior to the dedication which he read out instead of praying spontaneously. The dedicatory prayer of this temple is one of my most favourite sections of the Doctrine and Covenants.

This one promise from it has stuck with me for many years: “And we ask thee, Holy Father, that thy servants may go forth from this house ARMED WITH THY POWER, and that thy name may be upon them, and thy glory be round about them, and thine angels have charge over them.”  (v 22)

Verse 23 speaks of the servants carrying the message of truth in power to the ends of the earth but to me this power means it is available to all members of the Church for their ultimate efforts in progressing toward perfection. I know this because I have felt this power wash over me at the veil several times when I have uttered the word POWER. You temple patrons will understand.

And this is what tells me of the Saviour’s investment in our salvation. In Section 95, the Lord indicated the temple should be built so He can endow those whom He has chosen with power from on high (v 8). Who are the chosen? They are those who make the covenants of obedience and who are presented at the veil. They are the chosen. Obedience is the principle of power.

How much does this tell us about the Saviour and His investment in our growth, our well-being, and our salvation? How much does this tell us about His love, His mercy, His grace, His compassion and His sacrifice for us? It tells us this much: “I am with you to bless you and deliver you forever.”  (D&C 108:8)

 

Your power and Your grace

flood my mortal being 

with everlasting hope

And bring me to Thee;

I love You more dearly;

I obey you more freely;

I become what I alone could never be.

- CATHRYNE ALLEN 

(Art: The Lord's Appearance to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery in the Kirtland Temple by Theodore S. Gorka)