Revelation in our lives in Brazil is real. It is part of how we were prepared to be able to be called to this mission. It is part of how the call came to us and it has been part of the very numerous experiences here. Often, at the time of the revelation, we do not appreciate what was being received as revelation, but later it is easier to see that it was that very gradual result of listening and seeing the results. Many times the fact of revelation is felt during communication with a person or group. Other times we can see the hand of protection and care during travel. We have felt promptings which is another word we have for revelation, when we decide to visit someone or be early for a class or visit. During or later the purpose for that event becomes clear.
How wonderful is the apostolic promise that; "The spirit of revelation is available to every person who receives by proper priesthood authority the saving ordinances of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost - and who is acting in faith to fulfill the priesthood injunction to "receive the Holy Ghost."" It is ours to claim, not just for those in authority in the Church.
I marvel at our understanding of this principle. We have the promise but we have to seek it. When it is given, we need to be grateful and acknowledge this gift. Oliver Cowdery had to be reminded that it was through this process that he was led to help the Prophet Joseph Smith who he did not know and who was in another location at the time. As Elder Bednar promised, "As you appropriately seek for and apply unto the spirit of revelation, I promise you will "walk in the light of the Lord""
This is part of our understanding of "Line upon line, precept upon precept" (2 Nephi 28:30) that comes to us throughout our life. I am very grateful for this principle of revelation that has directed us during the difficult times and during the times when our help has been needed by others.
What Jim says is so true here on our mission. It happens over an over again, and we do ask for it every day in our morning companion prayers. I also know from a very personal experience that we are all entitled to inspiration and revelation, for our own stewardships, if we seek it and are available to listen and understand when it comes. We have our 36 year old son today because of that fact. It wasn't the medical staff that saved his life, they were no where around. It was because of a revelation to me, that I acted upon, the evening after his birth while we were still in the hospital.
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