No Endowments.—Another proof that Zion's redemption was not intended for that time, is found in another part of the same revelation: "And this cannot be brought to pass until mine elders are endowed with power from on high."[[10]] Take note that the Church had no "endowments" in 1834. There was no Temple that early, and the sacred ritual of the House of God, even if revealed to the Prophet, had not been made known to the people. Whether this was the endowment referred to in the revelation, or whether it meant something else, it is evident that the blessing spoken of was in the future.[[11]]

Zion could not be redeemed until the Elders were "endowed with power from on High." And yet these same Elders, unendowed, had been sent forth to redeem Zion! Surely, the Lord did not design it then to be. Else would He not have endowed them beforehand? This admitted, and what becomes of their "failure?" They were blameworthy for their disobedience, but surely not for their failure to do what could not be done by men unendowed and consequently not equal to the undertaking.

Left to the Future.—Zion was not redeemed in that dav for precisely similar reasons to those which kept ancient Israel wandering for forty years in the Wilderness, almost within sight of their coveted Canaan, which they were not permitted in that generation to possess.[[12]] Like Moses, these modern pilgrims beheld, as from Pisgah's top, their promised land. Like Moses, on account of transgression, they were not permitted to "cross over." There were Calebs and Joshuas in the Camp who were worthy; but the great event, in the wisdom of the Highest, was not destined then to be. It was left for a future generation and its Joshua to go up in the might of the Lord and redeem Zion.[[13]]

"With a Stretched Out Arm."—The Lord made it plain to His people that they must prepare themselves for the great things awaiting them. Before they could hope to accomplish their glorious destiny, they must become mighty, not only in numbers and material influence, but morally and spiritually mighty—mighty by the power of God, descending upon them as an endowment from on High.[[14]] When ready to redeem Zion, the way would be prepared for them, angels and even the Divine Presence going on before. They were not to use violence to secure their rights. God would fight their battles. They were "the children of Israel, and of the seed of Abraham," and "must needs be led out of bondage by power and with a stretched out arm."[[15]]

Tried and Proven.—From the ranks of the survivors of Zion's Camp—decimated by cholera while on its way to Jackson County—were chosen the first Twelve Apostles and the first quorums of Seventy in this dispensation.[[16]] These men were deemed reliable. They had been put to the test, and had endured valiantly The trial of their faith was complete.

Nigh at Hand.—When will end the "little season" of waiting? When will the day of Zion's redemption dawn? I know not; but this I know. That day is rapidly approaching. The Order of Unity and Equality, involving the consecration, not only of properties, but also of hearts and hands, will yet be established and perpetuated. It must be, for Zion cannot be built up without it:[[17]] and until there is a Zion on Earth, the Lord, the King of Kings, will not come.

Footnotes

[1]. D. & C. 105:2.

[2]. Ib. 103:30; 105:16.

[3]. D. & C. 103:15.