"a marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men" (D&C 4:1)

This phrase is perhaps one of the most significant phrases in the Doctrine and Covenants, because of what it represents. Joseph Smith said that "the Book of Mormon is the most correct book of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion...a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book." I know that the Book of Mormon has the power to change lives and ultimately to change the world.

To begin with, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon was miraculous in and of itself. Anyone who learns the history of the translation and printing of the Book of Mormon would have no other option but to admit that it was completed by the hand of God. However, my mind is drawn more to the present day results of this "marvelous work." It is still coming forth. The stone is still rolling and the Gospel will continue to go forth "until it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in every ear" (Joseph Smith).

Currently, church materials are available in over 100 languages. There are over 100 operating temples worldwide. Over 52,000 missionaries are currently serving in over 340 missions. Church membership totals over 13 million and there are more members outside the United States than within it. I have friends serving all across the globe, spending 2 years of their lives sharing the gospel with others. How could this be anything but the Lord's work? Why else would so many 19 year old boys be willing to give up 2 precious years of their young lives, knowing they couldn't even hug a girl or play a video game or sleep in until noon. ;) It is true. They know it is true. And that is why they serve.

Thinking about this phrase sure gives new meaning to the word "marvelous." It is all encompassing in this context. In a couple days I will listen to the semi-annual General Conference of the church. It will be 2 days full of listening to Prophets, Apostles, and other General Authorities. I will be joined in listening to their words by millions of people all around the world. What a grand occasion this is. As one of my good friends refers to it, it's her favorite holiday! Much of what we will be taught comes directly from the Book of Mormon and the lessons and principles we learn as a result of reading it. This simple, but powerful book, this marvelous work, is continuing to influence the church each and every day.

I want to close with my testimony of the Book of Mormon. I know it is true. I know it can be read as a companion to the Bible, another testament of Jesus Christ. I know that as I continue to read it, my life will continue to be blessed, and I will grow closer to God. I've been re-reading it the past few months and my eyes have been open to insights that I have never seen before. It truly is for our day, and for us! No matter what part of our lives we are in. The Book of Mormon has come forth, it continues to come forth, and it is a marvelous work.