Letter from the Editor

Jul 2010 Issue

When most people think of “pioneers,” the images that come to mind include covered wagons, dusty trails, women in long skirts and bonnets and men in wide-brimmed hats. While this may be what Mormon pioneer ancestors wore and how they travelled, there is much more to their story. The essence of their story is not the external trappings; it is in their hearts.

Those who began the journey knew some of the trials they would face due to hunger, exposure, exhaustion and hostile neighbors. So why did they do it? Why? Why did they choose to face such overwhelming hardship? Why did they press forward by day, and pray with gratitude by night?

They did it because they knew that the heavens were open again, and that God had again sent prophets to the earth. They understood that God was restoring the covenants He made with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; that He had again delegated to man His power, the Holy Priesthood. They understood that to be a “peculiar people” to the Lord, they must be set apart.

Gathering with the saints to a place of God’s choosing is a pattern as old Noah, Lot, Moses, Lehi, Nephi, and Alma. It is as current as the newest convert, and the most recently organized ward, stake or mission.
It is a part of the “literal gathering of Israel” referred to in the tenth Article of Faith. The desire to gather with the saints is nothing less than a commitment to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
In this light, let us celebrate Pioneer Day with a new spirit. Let us remember not just the covered wagons, but the faith in God that was bigger than fear; not the dusty trails, but the fact that they followed the prophet to build a temple and a Zion society. Let us remember their trials and hardships though, that they may inspire us in our own dark days. Let us always remember the ultimate purpose: to worship Almighty God in humility and truth.

As President Monson recently said, “Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.” May our faith be as bright as the pioneers’ faith. May we embrace the pioneer spirit and commit ourselves fully to it. May our lives one day serve as an example, just like theirs.

All the best,