The teachings of King Benjamin to his people must have had
such a huge impact on them. When Ammon stands before the people to give an
account of what has happened in Zarahemla since they left, he took the time to
include King Benjamin’s sermon in what he was saying. I live in a time when
there are prophets on the earth, and I’m afraid that I trifle with their words,
and don’t take the time to really appreciate that blessing; to let their words
change me and remember them and study them the way Ammon must have to be able
to share them. I’ve been feeling like I need to focus more on rereading
conference talks, and reading this reinforces and reminds me of that
impression.
It must have creepy to run into the ruins and bones of a
huge nation. I can totally see why Zeniff was anxious to know what had been the
cause of the destruction. Without knowing what had happened it seems
terrifying.
It is interesting to me that we sustain the prophet and the
quorum of the 12 as prophets, seers and revelators, especially in light of the
conversation Zeniff and Ammon have about Mosiah in this chapter. A prophet can know
of things to come, a revelator reveals hidden truths and seer can see unseeable
things, like into the future, or unknown languages. These are all gifts of knowledge
that come from God. Ammon says there is no greater gift that this, except to have
all of God’s power. It’s interesting that we think of being powerful as being able
to do things or control things, but real power is wisdom, knowledge, and understanding.
I also love that Ammon says that such a man is given power to
work might miracles to be a benefit to his fellow man. It’s humility again, where
the power isn’t for glory at all, just a better ability to serve.
In verse 20 when Zeniff laments that the children of God do not
desire that he should rule of them, it is really striking to me today. Omar and
I have been talking about how people we know don’t want God to be able to give them
commandments, and chafe against religion as trying to control them. Zeniff marvels
at His long suffering and patience, and how He blesses us despite our stubbornness
and pride. I am so grateful for myself that He does, and also for those that I love
that I can see struggling that way. If only we could all see and feel and know how
He is trying to keep safe, like a shepherd for real.
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