Comforting words

Ether 4 & 5

Moroni is commanded to seal up the writing of the brother of Jared.  These things will be revealed when men show forth the faith like that of the brother of Jared.   There will be three witnesses who will be allowed to see the ancient plates to stand as a testimony of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.

I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of wonderment and gratitude went through Joseph Smith’s mind when he translated these two chapters.  At least these two things had to have crossed his mind. 

• He must have the same kind of faith as the brother of Jared since he too had seen Jesus Christ and the Father
• He was put in a position to choose witnesses to actually see the ancient plate

Can you imagine how filled with joy he must have been?  In spite of the joy he had to feel because the Lord had trusted him to bring forth this great work, he had an immense burden up to this time.  So far, everyone just had to believe his word.  No wonder his load was so heavy!  Now he could actually have others see and touch and know for themselves – separate from the Spirit bearing witness.   

This brings up an interesting thought/question.  How was Emma feeling at all this?  She was not among those privileged to see and touch these records.  I’m a wife.  Would I have been as faithful?  I know she saw them under cloth and she knew they were there.  She knew her husband, and knew he was being blessed to bring forth this work.  Would I have kept my mouth shut and not at least asked if I could please see them?  I can be pretty pesky at times.  Well, this chapter brings within me a deeper respect for Emma.  She believed her husband without having to see for herself.  She believed because of the Spirit – the Holy Ghost. 

As I ponder this I am in awe of Emma.  Then my mind goes to the “now”.  Wait, I believe and haven’t seen or touched.  I believe the Book of Mormon is true because the Spirit tells me it is true.  The things I read there ring true.  I have put them to the test and they have blessed my life beyond measure.   I can’t imagine my life without the Book of Mormon.  So is my faith similar to that of Emma’s?  I believe it just might be.  In 3 Nephi 19:29 (and I’m sure in many other places, but this one satisfied my search for this morning) the Christ is praying for those who believe on the words of those whom he has called.    Those who believe are purified because of their faith, and made one with the Savior.  Those are comforting words.