17:3 ponder upon the things which I have said, and ask of the Father, in my name, that ye may understand, and prepare your mind

In what way do prepare ourselves to receive instruction, especially instruction from the Master Teacher?

There were probably occasions in our pasts when we would give in to procrastination, whether because of simple laziness, distractions, or other desires, we might have put off studying and preparing for a school test, a job interview, a lesson, or even the assignment to give a talk in church. And when the time came, we would ask “why did I do this to myself?” It appears to be a tough lesson to learn. If you were to do it right, what would it look like? Imagine that you have been given the opportunity to teach a class in one week. A class on any topic, even on a skill you have practiced for years, one that you are known for, with the understanding and belief that even the most skilled and experienced person would benefit from adequate preparation. What would an ideal preparation be? Four hours of study, writing, reading and practicing the day before, or even the morning of? What about one hour of preparation activities every day for four days leading up to the class?

Research has shown that equal hours of preparation spread out over a longer period of time offer a greater mental capacity for retention over the same amount of time crammed into fewer sessions. That sounds very academic, but is it equally meaningful for a spiritual exercise? Absolutely, and when we demonstrate our earnest desire in this way, the Holy Spirit can further enhance our capacity to learn.

The ultimate test we can prepare for is the test of life itself. It is a both a practical exam and multiple choice and can last a long time. So, what are you doing to prepare for it?

Jesus tells the Nephites “I perceive that ye are weak, that ye cannot understand” (17:2). He knows us very well indeed. He knows when we are ready to receive knowledge, he wants to reveal his mysteries. But we must be ready to receive them, and so he commands the Nephites and us to prepare.

17:5 they did look steadfastly upon him

This group of people became so humble that Jesus was overcome with compassion for them. They had allowed the events of the recent days to change them. They did in every way, look steadfastly upon Jesus. This act for them was physical, having him in their presence. But for us can be a spiritual one. We look steadfastly upon Jesus when we chose to do his will, when we read his words, when we pray in his name, consistently. Rather than rushing to cram for the test the day of, we look steadfastly when we prepare every day.

Is it better to practice being a saint for 3 hours one day of the week, or for 25 minutes every day of a week?

It is consistent, steadfast looking upon Jesus that allows him to change us into the saints we are to be.

17:8 your faith is sufficient

From this verse I derive one of the most challenging questions of faith. Is my faith sufficient? Sufficient to be healed, to be taught, to be saved? And if my faith is sufficient to be blessed according to my desire, why might I not receive it? There is no universal answer to this question as each of us require differently, but it should provoke introspection. So, here are my introspective questions:

• I said my faith is sufficient, but is it really?

• If my faith were sufficient, would I still have a desire to be blessed according to my will?

• Or would my desire change?

19:9 they did pray for that which they most desired; and they desired that the Holy Ghost should be given unto them.

19:24 they did still continue, without ceasing, to pray unto him; and they did not multiply many words, for it was given unto them what they should pray, and they were filled with desire.

I think the desire to be healed is noble, even if only to eliminate one’s own suffering. There might be desires for others even greater than for ourselves that take precedence. Only through fasting and prayer can we come to know the will of God concerning us and our condition, and through prayer make his will our own. So, if you are not at least praying to know the will of God, this where we begin to make our faith sufficient. And if there is still a doubt, remember what Jesus said to the rich young man who asked, “what lack I yet?” (Matthew 19:20-22)

17:11-18 No Greater Joy

What do we desire for our children? It was concern for the future generations that caused Jesus to groan over the wickedness of the house of Israel (17:14). Parents may groan over the wickedness of the generation in which their children will grow up. Indeed, our children are the Hope of Israel. I think this hope is what motivated Jesus to utter words that cannot be written no less comprehended. And he blessed the hope of Israel at this time in ways we cannot understand, beyond knowing that this experience represents the pinnacle of joy that could ever be felt. Angels descended and ministered to them. Parents today have the responsibility to nurture the hope of Israel, it can feel like an overwhelming task. It is a calling that may bring joy like no other.

18:18 watch and pray always

If there was still a question about whether it is better to be a saint for a time on one day a week or throughout the week, hopefully this verse provides the answer. Watching and praying always, or else we will give into temptation. It isn’t not a question of if but when:

18:25 And ye see that I have commanded that none of you should go away, but rather have commanded that ye should come unto me, that ye might feel and see; even so shall ye do unto the world; and whosoever breaketh this commandment suffereth himself to be led into temptation.

There is a force constantly conspiring to have us, their efforts do not cease. We cannot cease in our efforts to prepare, to combat and to overcome evil. Look unceasingly. I am reminded of a story I was told, which you may have heard, which I have recently retold in my own way... the boulder.

I hope that these chapters are a strong reminder to us all, that lasting, real, full joy will only come through Jesus Christ, by obedience to his commandments.