Spark

A favorite phrase from the scriptures for me has always been: Spark of Freedom.

It seems to me equivalent to a mustard seed of faith. Just a bit – a spark. That is all that needs to be there to start with – and so much can come from that. A desire = a spark.

At this time in the Book of Mormon, Moroni (chief captain of the Nephite armies) writes a fairly scathing letter to Pahoran – the chief judge and governor of the land – and wants to know why the government is being neglectful of the men he is in charge of. He tells them what’s what and then makes this promise:

“I will come unto you, and if there be any among you that has a desire for freedom, yea, if there be even a spark of freedom remaining, behold I will stir up insurrections among you, even until those who have desires to usurp power and authority shall become extinct.”

Yea, behold I do not fear your power nor your authority, but it is my God whom I fear…” (Alma 60:27-28)

What an example of no-fear leading. Now, thankfully, Pahoran was still steadfast in liberty and explains to Moroni about the insurrection in the land – the rebellion of the king-men. He explains his position:

“I, Pahoran, do not seek for power, save only to retain my judgment-seat that I may preserve the rights and the liberty of my people. My soul standeth fast in that liberty in the which God hath made us free.” (Alma 61:9)

Together they devise a plan to take back their land. Pahoran also asks Moroni to build up the other leaders in the army. “See that ye strengthen Lehi and Teancum in the Lord; tell them to fear not, for God will deliver them, yea, and also all those who stand fast in that liberty wherewith God hath made them free.” (Alma 61:22)

Pahoran ends his epistle by calling Moroni brother.

I love Pahoran’s care and concern for them all and that he doesn’t take offense at Moroni’s letter. Calmly and boldly explains and asks for what is needed. He bears his testimony in so many ways in that one epistle. What would our land be like with such leaders? Love Pahoran’s promise too – “Tell them to fear not, for God will deliver them, yea, and also ALL those who stand fast in that liberty wherewith God hath made them free.”

That’s us. Deliverance will come… one way or another… we need to stand fast in that liberty.

Now for one of the cutest things I have EVER heard.

Caleb adored the fireworks at the family reunion last year. Completely and fully loved. My sister Anna (she’s on the left)