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Alma 17

The next 10 chapters that we will be studying, from Alma 17 through 27 is the account of the sons of Mosiah and their efforts at preaching the gospel.  Now, I know this isn't English class but you have to really appreciate the writing efforts and styling of Mormon right here.  After recounting Alma the younger and his very real successes and failers at preaching the gospel Alma runs into the sons of Mosiah as he was journeying from the land of Gideon. They hadn't seen each other in close to 14 years (Alma 17:4). We hear about their experience sharing the gospel the next ten chapters.  It is a really clear way to see the transition, in time and experience. At least clearer and easier for me to see than perhaps the mess that is Mosiah 8 (please see previous post if you are confused at what I mean).  

When I read in Alma 17 about Alma running into his friends after such a long time my heart just feels this warmth and excitement too.  Alma and the sons of Mosiah: Ammon, Aaron, Omner, and Himni (Mosiah 27:34) where those friends that got in trouble together, repented together, and committed to God together.  I just image those people who you know are best friends and inseparable.  The moment Alma sees them on the road he "did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethern; and what added more to his joy, they were still his brethren in the Lord" (Alma 17:2).  He was so excited to see them but was even more excited and felt this increase in joy because they were still his brethren in the Lord. They were still faithful and had not returned to their old ways.  Do we find ways to celebrate the faith and victories of others like that? Do you feel that excitement when you see a friend after a long time and realize they are doing amazing things? What heartache do you feel when a friend of yours leaves the church? What about a family member. 

I just love this example of find joy in other's obedience and success.  The scripture goes on to expand on what these wonderful men did to remain so faithful.  It is really advice to us today. Ammon, Aaron, Omner, and Himni took the time to search diligently the scriptures which allowed them to understand the things of the Spirit and know the word of God. And if you know the word of God, you really know God. This means we can come to know God through our diligent efforts to search the scriptures too.  

This chapter wraps up with Ammon becoming a servant to King Lamoni.  He serves as a guard over the king's flocks and when out getting water with them a "certain number of Lamanites" (Alma 17:27) came up to scatter the flocks.  Losing the king's flock was punishable by death and was upsetting to the other servants out with Ammon.  Ammon invites them to be calm as he knew with the power of God he could restore the flock back together. And that is just what Ammon does while fending off new attacks by throwing rocks and slashing arms.  You know the story, it is right up their with Abinadi on most memorable Book of Mormon stories your childhood brain retained.  

After you take the time to read today's block I invite you to ponder what you can do to better celebrate and find joy in other people's successes. 

Perhaps check out this cool video from Elder Holland. There is room for all of us in the Lord's church.  There is a place for each of us and we also have a responsibility to celebrate all those that join us in brotherhood of the gospel. 

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