The Big Train's a Comin'

This train is following after the earlier one but is much larger and more complete. It might have been slow in gathering steam but is gaining momentum every day..  Its many engines are straining against a  ponderous line of cars of every description.  Its power is enormous and self contained--- gathering impetus as it gains speed. The name of this train is "The Family History Train".  Notice the similarity in the names of the two trains.  That must be by design.  Some could call it the "Elijah Train," set in motion by Malachi's prophecy and warning.  Or, we could think of  Moroni as a conductor ushering in this dispensation and setting the parameters and goals relating to the "fullness of times" by quoting Malachi's prophecy four times to young Joseph.  We can ponder the complete ramifications of Elijah's return in the Kirtland temple. We can understand this train's real origin and purpose from our Savior himself after He quoted the prophecy of Malachi to the people on the American continent, "These Scriptures, which ye had not with you, the Father commanded that I should give unto you; for it was wisdom in Him that they should be given unto future generations".  Yes, this train was set in motion in the Great Plan before we came to this earth.and it was destined to arrive on time at this station.

Who could want a person to baptized more that the missionary who is teaching them or the bishop who will be their shepherd?  Would anyone want to have a child or grandchild accept the fullness of gospel and obtain all the ordinances in the temple more than a parent or grandparent?    Who desires this for the child of their children's children? Who will do everything in their power to help this happen?  How thin can the veil become?  What power is on the other side?  How many missionaries are right now working with and for people in Ukraine from the other side of the veil?  Who are their leaders, organizing and directing their efforts?

Understanding, adapting, adopting and teaching the importance of this train is a big part of what we are about here.  There is not another place with a greater need to "turn hearts" than here but there are probably few places where it is more difficult.  The magnitude and horror of the many violent or untimely deaths in their history hang over this area.  The secrecy and "covering up" of the past and the mistrust fostered  over and over again are severe roadblocks.  But, still, this train carries healing and a return to love and hope. It is astonishing to stand back and define turning points in people's lives.  In every single conversion we have experienced here, family history, temple work, the justice and fairness of God, sealing for eternity had a major role.  That was true for Svetlana, Paul, Edgar, Chidi, Ashot, Ani, Michael,Yulia, missionaries and leaders.

The church handbooks are now renewed and clear.  Just last month new missionary calls included a request for every missionary to learn the new FamilySearch.  MTC training now includes coursework and videos on using family history as a finding and teaching tool and there is in-field training available for serving missionaries.  An understanding of the finding section of Preach My Gospel is increasing.  Ward and branch councils are just beginning to grasp what family history can do in activation and retention.  

"We'll sing and we'll shout with the armies of Heaven.  The veil o'er the earth is beginning to burst!"

The big train is coming!