Zion and Babylon

Elders, 

In Rastafari, "Zion" stands for a utopian place of unity, peace and freedom, as opposed to "Babylon", the oppressing and exploiting system of the materialistic modern world and a place of evil.

To compare and contrast the both the groom and the bride, letslook at these two. 

The grooms are both dressed in red and have a sword from their mouths. One is the Savior (a redeemer) whilst the other is a dragon (prosecutor). 

The brides are dressed, one in white (Zion) with stars as a crown and a firm footstool (the moon) with light coming from within and the other in lavish colors and gauty jewelry. Both have a goblet. Zion has the blood of Christ to renew and redeem those that partake while Babylon's goblet has the blood of murdered saints and greed. She asks you to join her in her whoredoms and pride. (Revelations 17:1-5; 19:7-8; see also 1 Nephi 13:4-9, 26-29, 14:3-17, 22:13-18. D&C 97:21)

Now there is a lot of similarities and references but you may wonder why I am bringing these things up. Remember how the very elect will be deceived (Matt 24:24)? The apostasy has enforced that deception and you as missionaries are weeding out those that are looking for the bride (church) against those that are content with a imitation. 

Imitation of the preaching of Christ will bark like a dog, scriptures with no context or willingness to convert people but will order the follower to heed only and do nothing for themselves. The deciple will ask, invite, share and encourage the use of discovery though the scriptures and living prophets. The relationship with the Lord is internal and deep not superficial and flighty. 

Brethren, teach to inspire. We may be eager to lift and encourage but be careful not to be desperate. Like a delicate flower, you must nurture the relationship that you want your investigators to have. I know when you walk down the streets you see the children of God and it pains you to see lost souls. Teach with kindness and boldness, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, and there a little. 

Remember to pray as the prophets have done with whome purpose of heart, every night returning and reporting what was done with your request in your morning prayer. Tell Him how you saw the daily miracles. Report of your relationships with your investigators. Tell Him your fear and struggles. Then our out your eternal thanks. Spend as much time as you need. He is not going anywhere. He loves us all and is really proud of your effort. Your daily obedience is a marvel. Elders, God loves you. I hope you feel that. 

Anyway, be good and do good. Remember I pray for you. 

Nathan Bingham 

Hymns

Elders,

This is an older message but true still 

Last week we were at church and sang songs that reminded me of my dear dad (hymn 230 and 229). This week we sang songs that reminded me of my dear niece who is serving in a far-off land (hymn 270) with her whole heart. 

I have forgotten how much the power of music has changed and corrected my course. While I was the road working for the company Telephia, to keep anchored to my faith I would listen to hymns. While I was away, by myself, it was tough not to swim in my telestrial thoughts. It was no different when I lost focus on my mission. At work and on my mission I had to keep my eye on the prize. I had to catch the vision. Music, believe it or not, helps us keep the course and an eye on our northern star.

Elders, God gave us music. What does it say in Doctrine and Covenants 25:12? "For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads."

Sing, Elders when you can't find the voice to pray, when your faith struggles, when you desire to repent (or your investigators need to) but don't know how, when you need hope in your hopeless moments. Songs change the heart and move us for good or evil. 

You are great, and sons of greatness. You are on the Masters errand. You have His message. Be bold and open your mouth. The message will be the right one with Spirit assistance. The Holy Ghost is your gift, receive it, not shelf it. Listen, ponder and pray, then maybe sing every once in a while.