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In his general conference address, “Let God Prevail” President Nelson states:
“For centuries, prophets have foretold this gathering, and it is happening right now! As an essential prelude to the Second Coming of the Lord, it is the most important work in the world! This premillennial gathering is an individual saga of expanding faith and spiritual courage for millions of people. And as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or “latter-day covenant Israel,” we have been charged to assist the Lord with this pivotal work.”
In many talks since, President Nelson has made it clear that the Gathering of Israel is happening and we get to be a part of it.
As a young mother I often wonder what is my role in the gathering. I can’t be a missionary, I’m knee deep in diapers, I’m barley making it to the temple due to nursing babies, how am I to participate?!
President Nelson goes on to say,
“When we speak of gathering Israel on both sides of the veil, we are referring, of course, to missionary, temple, and family history work. We are also referring to building faith and testimony in the hearts of those with whom we live, work, and serve. Anytime we do anything that helps anyone—on either side of the veil—to make and keep their covenants with God, we are helping to gather Israel.”
It donned on me that I am gathering, in fact many mothers have felt the call to gather. They’re gathering their children home to study God’s word and build relationships. They’re gathering family to feed and shelter. They gather friends and strangers to extend love and fellowship. And in all cases they’re gathering people and bringing them to Christ.
When we moved to North Carolina for my husbands grand school I felt the distinct impression that out home needed to be a gathering place. I’ve worked and wondered and wrestled with God the last four years on how to make our home a gathering place, a spiritual refuge, a peaceful place for all who enter.
It’s become my goal to create a place where they can rest their weary souls. (I’m still working on this because it doesn’t come naturally to me)
Maybe you also have young children and wonder how you can be a part of the gathering. I think it starts with your own heart. Gather yourself to Christ, then your children, then you’re family them friends them strangers. The more anchored to Christ we are as mothers the easier it is to bring others to Him.
As President Nelson said, if we are helping someone make and keep covenants we are participating in the gathering. Lucky for mother, it’s in the job description to teach our children of Jesus Christ and His gospel, to show them the beauty of covenant keeping, and teach them about them.