Moroni’s conversation with the Lord.
Ether 12: 25-41
Moroni: We are trying to express what we know is true and right as clearly and compellingly as we possibly can, guided as much by the Spirit as we can, but, knowing them, I am afraid that they will not believe any of it, but instead consider our words foolish, naïve and laughable and not understand that which is so essential that they understand. My best efforts at persuasion or explaining are not enough. And knowing that, I am concerned and dismayed.
The Lord: Yes. They will mock. And, in the end, they will be very sad that they did not pay attention or consider what you wrote. But remember that my grace, my loving, willing, powerful help, is enough to prevent them from irrevocably misusing what you have written.
That’s the power of my grace. And my grace can be enough for every man or woman who struggles with weakness and is humbled as he/she realizes that weakness and turns to me for help. That’s a major reason why I give you weakness. It helps you to humble yourself and to want and ask for my help. And then, with my grace, what is a weakness when you try by yourself, becomes a strength as we work together. (Working together is an essential element of celestial life.)
Those people who will mock? They will, in time, see clearly the eternally erroneous elements of the position they have taken. I will show them that the things they are espousing and doing that they think are good and strong, are not; that if they wish to be one with me what they really need to do is become full of faith in me, place their hope in what I know is possible for them, and become truly filled with charity. You can trust me with that work.
Moroni: Thanks. Being reminded of that is helpful. I will trust you as this unfolds. …I know the power of charity, and how essential it is. I know the power of faith in you…just look at what Jared’s brother was able to do because he trusted you so faithfully. I understand what glorious future may await us and the immense love you have for us; so immense that you gave your life for us. It is woven throughout your work. Truly charity is absolutely essential to and the very essence of celestial life.
I understand now that, if those we are so very concerned about do not respond with charity to our efforts and words, but instead mock or deride what we believe and know, that you will make it so that, in time, they will be able to see themselves and their choices exactly as they are, and what they really are when they are without the strengths they have that you have given to them and out of touch with the grace that you offer to them.
So, Lord, would you please, with your grace, make it so that they have more charity and become open to your grace sooner than later? That would save so much time and trouble and sorrow for them and for me.
The Lord: Don’t worry about whether or not they have charity. That’s for me to address. Your not worrying about that helps you to continue to work with me to assist others, to increase in faith, repent, be forgiven, become more at one with me, and grow in charity and grace.
Your awareness of your own weakness and your turning to me for help opens you to working with my grace, making you more empowered to do good in the world and preparing you to be able to come to the place I have prepared for you. Focus on that.
Moroni (later, speaking to the audience): And now I..bid farewell to you, and to my brothers who I dearly love, until we shall meet before the judgment-seat of Chist…And then shall you know that I have seen Jesus, and that he has talked with me face to face, and that he told me in in plain humility, even as a man tells another in my own language, these things.
I would strongly and kindly and fervently recommend that you seek Jesus, so that you can come to know and experience first hand the grace that comes from Him, and from God the Father, and the Holy Ghost (who bears record of them) and so that you can also experience His amazing grace in your life not just once, but forever.
