Elder ZJones: Staying on the Path and Holding to the Rod

We had a baptism this past week, listened to the Prophet speak, and had interviews with President Resek. So let's just say that it was a full week with many miracles and blessings from our Father in Heaven. Cristian's baptism this week was awesome and I had the opportunity to confirm him on Sunday. Though we have only taught him for three weeks, I have seen his testimony increase, his love for the Savior grow, and his progress in truly coming unto Christ. Baptismal days are the best days! You get to see those that you have taught make a promise with God that can help them for eternity.

Interviews went well with President Resek. He asked me to so a practice with him in Spanish about baptism. In the beginning I couldn't believe it, but it turned out pretty well. Practicing the lessons have helped me out so much! Even though I don't enjoy them, they do pay off.

Today I want to share something I learned in the scriptures. Every time I read 1 Nephi 8 I learn something new. In 1 Nephi 8: 24-28 it says:

24 And it came to pass that I beheld others pressing forward, and they came forth and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press forward through the mist of darkness, clinging to the rod of iron, even until they did come forth and partake of the fruit of the tree.

25 And after they had partaken of the fruit of the tree they did cast their eyes about as if they were ashamed.

26 And I also cast my eyes round about, and beheld, on the other side of the river of water, a great and spacious building; and it stood as it were in the air, high above the earth.

27 And it was filled with people, both old and young, both male and female; and their manner of dress was exceedingly fine; and they were in the attitude of mocking and pointing their fingers towards those who had come at and were partaking of the fruit.

28 And after they had tasted of the fruit they were ashamed, because of those that were scoffing at them; and they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost.

When I thought about these verses, I realize that our progress on the path doesn't end once we get to the tree. I have always thought that once we get to the tree and eat the fruit its over and we are saved. But there is more. Once we eat of the fruit, we still have temptation, the pride of the world, and the darkness around us. There were many that were ashamed after they ate the fruit and wondered off towards the building and were lost. I learned that once we make it to the tree there is no exploring. We either stay or go. It's our choice. We have to continue to endure and eat of the fruit. We can't, at anytime, step away from the tree or all that we went through to get there can't lead us back. We need to determine where we are in the vision.

And if we are at the tree and can feel of His love, we need to stay there and not go exploring. We will still face trials and temptations, but we need to continue to eat and invite, then we will be saved.

Have a great week! Love you all!

Elder Jones