1 Nephi 8

As one reads and re-reads the scriptures, at times, new symbolisms seem to jump on the page and their meanings seem to spring new thoughts and ideas.

In Lehi's vison, as he traveled -

"...I beheld myself that I was in a dark and dreary waste."  (Book of Mormon | 1 Nephi 8:7)

I confess in my younger years, in experimenting in many things of the world...what a "waste" of my life.  For Lehi continued in this waste and dark world until -

"...I began to pray unto the Lord that he would have mercy on me, according to the multitude of his tender mercies."  (Book of Mormon | 1 Nephi 8:8)

It was with this change in praying and seeking the truth over darkness and waste that -

"...I beheld a large and spacious field."  (Book of Mormon | 1 Nephi 8:9)

And the he sees what appears to be somewhere in the large and spacious field -

"...a tree, whose fruit was desirable to make one happy." (Book of Mormon | 1 Nephi 8:10)

My thoughts and focus this morning is that large and spacious field.  As I personally prayed on how I should change my life, what I saw open was the large and spacious mission field.  As I look back, it was looking toward this field away from darkness and waste that changed my life. 

The more I thought about this field the more I saw it this field as the opportunity to serve our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  This is His field, this field is His work.  In my mind, this is what it means to take upon oneself the name of Christ.

Of course I still had to enter the gate and proceed on the strait and narrow path.  I had to repent, keeping His commandments, holding fast to the Iron Rod, and experience the fruit of the Tree. But what has also blessed my life is the field, the opportunity to accept Church callings and serve my Master.  Just a thought.