Jesus prophesied of the gathering of Israel and instructed church members to meet together often. Those two concepts are more closely connected than we might realize. When we accept the gospel, we become part of a community of saints who strengthen one another by talking often about our faith.
“I Will Be in the Midst of You”
After the Savior's resurrection, He stood "in the midst" of His apostles in Jerusalem and later "in the midst" of a large multitude in the Americas. When He returns to the earth, He will be in our midst. We will not only know He has returned; we will feel close to Him.
Zarahemla, Nashville, or Nauvoo
In 1841, the Lord instructed church members in Iowa to gather in locations identified by the prophet. Gathering brings strength and safety and prepares us to be with the Savior. A community of believers helps each of us achieve our full potential and empowers us to more fully accomplish God's purposes.
“My Strange Act”
Isaiah prophesied that God would perform a "strange act." The Lord reiterated this prophecy in modern revelation. Scriptures teach that being in unfamiliar places and working with people from different backgrounds can unlock God's blessings. The Savior invites us all into one covenant family and urges church members to welcome new converts with open hearts.
Remember the New Covenant
Jeremiah prophesied that God would "make a new covenant" with us. The Book of Mormon fulfills this prophecy in multiple ways: (1) by serving as the instrument for the gathering of Israel (2) by assuring us that we are children of the covenant, and (3) by inviting us to enter a covenant with God.
Old Testament Prophecies of the Second Coming
Four Old Testament prophecies quoted by Moroni to Joseph Smith teach us how to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ: 1. Strengthen families with priesthood power 2. Gather Israel and preach the gospel 3. Hear Him 4. Receive personal revelation
Lists of Sins
Three times in 3 and 4 Nephi, we find lists of sins, which represent the many sins we abandon as we approach Jesus. When we do so, He will purify us, fill us with power, and include us in a community of believers.
The Remnant Shall Return
Isaiah's prophecy about the remnant of Israel returning to God assures that no matter how far they are from home, they are not out of God's sight. Book of Mormon authors echo this sentiment: God is mindful of you, wherever you are, and you can come home.
Belonging
One of the purposes of the Book of Mormon is to assure us that we belong, that because of "the covenants of the Lord," we "are not cast off forever." Jesus taught that we belong to the covenants God made with our ancestors, and that He will not forget us.
Insiders Beware!
There is comfort in being included and valued, but there are dangers in feeling that we are uniquely chosen. God loves all of His children and blesses them in different ways at different times. Wd should celebrate all of those blessings.