Principle of Preparation

Doctrine and Covenants 45 is filled with prophetic signs we can look for as we anticipate the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. There are both positive and negative signs that are given for us to look for. We are living in a day when there has never been so much evil and so much good in the world at the same time. As we witness the prophecies of wars, the earth being in commotion, and desolating sicknesses covering the earth (v 26-31) we are also seeing missionaries leave at a younger age, the introduction of Come, Follow Me, and 20 temples announced in one General Conference!

In the closing verses of section 45 the Lord reminds us of the parable of the ten virgins from Matthew 25. I think the placement of this parable at the end of this section is significant. After being told what calamities and blessings will be upon the earth, we are reminded that our responsibility is to make sure we are spiritually prepared all of the time. How do we know if we have spiritually prepared ourselves enough to be ready when those wedding doors open for us? Verse 57 gives us some insight on what a wise virgin would look like.

They that are wise have...

• received the truth
• taken the Holy Spirit as their guide
• not been deceived

And when you are counted as one of the wise, you receive certain promised blessings...

• you shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire (v 57)
• you shall abide the day (v 57)
• the earth shall be your inheritance (v 58)
• you shall wax strong (v 58)
• your children shall grow up without sin (v 58)
• the Lord will be in your midst (v 59)
• His glory shall be upon you (v 59)

Signs are intended to help prepare us for what lies ahead. Just think of different traffic signs; a stop sign, a speed limit sign, an exit sign.  All these signs help prepare us to know what to expect on the roads and to be able to drive safely and confidently. The signs of the second coming work the same way. As we see these signs we are being made aware of what's ahead and how to prepare to navigate safely and confidently through this life. “If ye are prepared ye shall not fear.” (D&C 38:31).