Had the missionaries over for dinner tonight, and it was the Sisters’ turn to share a message. We read D&C 4 in its entirety, with subsequent discussion about the points which most impressed us. I highlighted verse 3, which becomes more and more meaningful to me all the time as I try to live in the moment and not miss my time as a missionary. It’s a gentle but humbling reminder that there is always work to be done, and we don’t need a call letter or a name tag before we do it. This led to a follow-up comment from another Sister on the significance of our desires.
She read verse 7 (above) and pointed out how, although initially it might seem repetitive, there are actually two statements/lessons going on in that short verse.
1) Ask, and ye shall receive. When we are seeking Christlike attributes (the topic being discussed in the preceding verses, we are often directed to seek the Lord’s help in our pursuit (see Moroni 7:48, D&C 46:8, James 1:5). In response, we receive– not attributes, but opportunities. The Lord will not force us to become anything, but He provides us with experiences that will transform us if we allow them to.
Which leads to the next statement:
2) Knock, and it shall be opened unto you. If asking gets us to the door (provides the opportunity), then knocking is how we respond to that opportunity. We must exercise our agency and ACT. Only then will the door be opened unto us, allowing us entrance to the place (or person) we truly want to be.
I loved this simple, but profound, insight. Our Heavenly Father loves us so much, and He is so accommodating. He really will do everything He can to help us reach our goals and succeed in our righteous endeavors, but we must turn to Him, trust Him, and participate!