Have you ever seen or been involved in a marching band or a large group floor presentation (olympics, group dance)?  The demonstration consists of numerous individuals who have learned their part and rehearsed.  The individual’s perspective is on the ground and they are unable to fully see the unfolding of the design of which they are an essential element of.  They are simply doing ‘the best they can’ and hope everyone else is too.

We trust in God’s plan of Happiness and through his directors here on earth, each of us is learning and practicing our part for the big show, if you will.  Each of us is important and we all have a part to play.  Our part most likely won’t look exactly like someone else’s part so it’s important to seek out, learn, and rehearse our part.

Read more: Zion, Music, and Isaiah

One part of the plan in the latter days regards the building up of the kingdom of God upon the earth.  To gather Zion and build a place of refuge.

Recently, President Nelson and the apostles have been teaching us about the gathering to Zion but 14 years ago, Boyd K. Packer spoke of this as well.  He said, ’We know that the homes we establish, and those of our descendants, will be the refuge spoken of in the revelations—the “light,” the “standard,” the “ensign” for all nations, and the “refuge” against the gathering storms.’ Boyd K. Packer “A Defense and a Refuge, Oct 2006.

A refuge is a safe place, a place to be rescued, a place of peace, a place of safety.

“And that the gathering together upon the land of Zion, and upon her stakes, may be for a defense, and for a refuge from the storm, and from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth.” D&C 115:6

There is safety in Zion. 

So, what does it mean to build Zion?

What role does music play in the building of Zion and how can it help provide a refuge?

The crucial building blocks of Zion start with the basic principles and ordinances of the gospel entering into the hearts of the individual.  They in turn, are willing to share and serve.

More than the essential elements of musicianship that many of us are constantly learning and practicing, we need faith and commitment to the Lord to enter into the ranks of guardianship to build Zion with music and singing.   

I believe our stewardship begins with a pure heart that longs for the sweetness of music.  Like any good fruit, we then offer it to our families, then our ward and branch families which strengthens our stake or Zion. The strength of the branches and wards is determined by each individual person serving, ministering, and praying, as they contribute and serve.  It is as though each of us is some portion of Christ’s body.  The sanctuary of Zion, becomes stronger and safer.   

I believe music is key in giving comfort, sustaining courage, and teaching the gospel. 

Christ said to study the words of Isaiah.  His words can give us courage to express our joy for the gathering and the plan of happiness that we might not be able express in our own words.  Isaiah can help us see and understand the big picture.  Think of yourself as the marching band person and Isaiah as the director of the whole group.

Listen to these Isaiah phrases from 2 Nephi 22 (Isaiah 12)  and note the musical language:

• . . . God is my salvation;  I will trust, and not be afraid; for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also has become my salvation. (v 2)
• Sing unto the Lord;  for he hath done excellent things;  this is known in all the earth. (v 5)
• Cry out and shout, show inhabitant of Zion; for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee. (v 6)

He says what is in my heart, even though I couldn’t think of the words myself, when I read them I’m grateful that he instructs me how to say it – how to sing it – how to shout it!!!!  Thank you Heavenly Father for prophets.  

As we learn, perform, and partake in this grand plan of our God, let us not ‘faint’ but ‘gird up our loins’.  Let us make a joyful noise.  We’re going to make mistakes along the way . . . learn to move on and practice,  but don’t let the fantasy of a perfect performance hinder your musical offerings in any arena.  Especially when it comes to building up the stakes of Zion and providing refuge from the storms.  

This is ministering. 

Read more: Zion, Music, and Isaiah