The Last Days

It is January 1^st, 2014 – a new day in a new year.  We were at a delightful party last night at friends with good people surrounding us.  The conversation turned to politics and the troubles of the nation currently.  I was mostly listening, but the things they were saying were most troubling.  With the Federal judge saying our Amendment 3 about marriage between and man and a woman is unconstitutional, gay and lesbian marriages have become legal and are happening at an alarming rate.  This edict has dropped the gate on morality and there is nothing that is not subject to become legal now.  Clyde feels certain the laws of the land will demand that gays and lesbians in good standing in the church be allowed to marry in the temple.  I can’t conceive of such a thing and it is a real bother.  Also, that bishops will be required by law to marry gays and lesbians if asked.  This can't possibly be?!!!

I was reading in Luke 17 where Jesus talks a little about the Last Days.  He says life was going on as it always has and then the end comes.  He compared it to Sodom.  It will be swift.  I then read from 3 Nephi 16 and Jesus is talking about the Last Days there as well.  I can’t help but wonder if we’re strong enough for this battle that is imminent.  Will I shun the fight or will I hold strong?

A friend told of a wedding she went to of her niece who was married by her bishop.  Those in attendance looked like they were freaks from a circus – men hanging on men, women hanging on women and exchanging kisses, etc.  It was disgusting and very uncomfortable.  When it was time for the bishop to marry the couple, he took the opportunity to reiterate the Lord’s moral laws as given in The Proclamation.  She said as soon as he did that, the icky feeling she was having was washed away and she felt at peace again.

I said “This is exactly what we are expected to do – bear testimony at every opportunity of the Lord’s ways and His Plan.”  It won’t be easy, but I know this is the only weapon we have – our testimonies.  Oh how I pray to have the strength to speak up when the opportunity avails itself.  I tend to be a quiet person in crowds.  This won’t be the easiest thing, but I know it will be given me in the very hour that I need it.