The events of the past week have come and gone, and it feels as though a distant and almost insignificant memory. And yet, I feel we may have just experienced one of the most significant milestones of this dispensation. I write this as a personal journal entry as well as a blog, hoping its content may be useful to others.
In late December of 2019 we began hearing rumors of Coronavirus in Wuhan, China. At the time it felt the same as other virus outbreaks of the past, like Ebola in Africa a few years ago, and rumors of swine flu, avian flu, and others over the last 20 years.
In January of 2020, China reported its first death from the virus. By the end of January the virus had reached the US, affected a man in Snohomish County, Washington, and the World Health Organization declared a global public-health emergency.
By the end of February, the virus spread to Italy and the first death on U.S. soil occurred. Then reports of deaths came. On March 11, the Trump administration began making statements about closing borders, banned all travel from 26 European countries, and a short time later advised citizens not to meet in groups larger than 10, along with a number of other advisements on social activities.
The LDS church followed suit and made announcements limiting contact in churches, even stopping weekly services, most temple activities, and huge limitations on general conference. About this time, runs on the grocery stores began as our nation’s food and household supplies went into a shortage almost overnight. Amidst all this, I never felt any inkling of fear, until one morning I went to the grocery store very early when I would normally see isles full of shelving stockman, crates, and pallets full of things, only to find empty shelves with no sign of being refilled. That is when it hit me that things were different.
Then the church issued a call for some foreign missionaries to return home and limiting the proselyting activities of those who would remain in the field. Though unusual and unprecedented in my lifetime, I didn’t feel real concern that any scriptural prophecy of any kind was in fulfillment.
Then on March 18, a M5.7 earthquake struck near Magna Utah early in the morning – the largest to occur in Utah in 28 years. Buildings were severely damaged. Gas and power lines were damaged affecting thousands of people along the Wasatch front. This was one of the more substantial quakes I’ve observed in the lower 48 states in many years, but I still didn’t feel much significance.
And then within about an hour I saw a picture of Moroni with his hand in the air without his trumpet, standing atop the Salt Lake Temple. All at once the messages of the Latter-days which I have studied for many years now hit me. I knew these were more than just events of nature. I saw God’s wisdom and heard his voice. That trumpet in Moroni’s hand’s is so significant and symbolic. It embodies what the church has been doing for 180 years. It is the icon of most of the messages given in the Doctrine and Covenants. It is the symbol of Ephraim’s responsibility to carry the gospel message to all the world in fulfillment of the Abrahamic Covenant.
Then two days later the church issued a call for all missionaries to return home. President Nelson’s recent comment that the April 2020 General Conference would be ‘memorable’ and ‘unforgettable’ certainly seem prophetic (Closing General Conference address, October 2019. Accessed https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders-and-ministry/2020-01-01/president-nelson-important-invitation-latter-day-saints-2020-171026).
With many of the missionaries in the world now returning home on church-chartered jets as I am writing, I am beginning to sense the silence of their proclaiming voices throughout the world, along with the silence of Moroni’s metaphoric but literally fallen trumpet. Who can deny the fulfillment of Brigham Young’s prophecy:
“All we have yet heard and all we have experienced is scarcely a preface to the sermon that is going to be preached. When the testimony of the Elders ceases to be given, and the Lord says to them, “Come home; I will now preach my own sermons to the nations of the earth.” all you now know can scarcely be called a preface to the sermon that will be preached with fire and sword, tempests, earthquakes, hail, rain, thunders and lightnings, and fearful destruction… You will hear of magnificent cities, now idolized by the people, sinking in the earth, entombing the inhabitants. The sea will heave itself beyond its bounds, engulfing mighty cities. Famine will spread over the nations, and nation will rise up against nation, kingdom against kingdom, and states against states, in our own country and in foreign lands” (Journal of Discourses, Vol. 8, p. 123, July 15, 1860).
Another quote seems to also be related to the same event: “Therefore, O Lord, deliver thy people from the calamity of the wicked; enable thy servants to seal up the law, and bind up the testimony, that they may be prepared against the day of burning” (D&C 109:46).
And just for the sake of providing ample evidence that servants of the Lord from an earlier age indeed had prophetic gifts, here is another quote by Heber C. Kimball: “The judgments of God will be poured out upon the wicked to the extent that our elders from far and near will be called home. Or, in other words, the gospel will be taken from the Gentiles and later on will be carried to the Jews.” (Deseret News, Church Department, May 23, 1931, p. 3)
Doctrine and Covenants also uses similar language in another chapter: “Labor diligently… go forth among the Gentiles for the last time… bind up the law and seal up the testimony, and to prepare the saints for the hour of judgment which is to come” (D&C 88:84).
Lastly, Elder Orson Pratt seems to have had prophetic insight on this event, and said: “When God has called out the righteous, when the warning voice has been sufficiently proclaimed among the Gentile nations, and the Lord says, ‘It is enough,’ he will also say to his servants—’O, ye, my servants, come home, come out from the midst of these Gentile nations, where you have labored and borne testimony for so long a period; come out from among them, for they are not worthy; they do not receive the message that I have sent forth, they do not repent of their sins, come out from their midst, their times are fulfilled. Seal up the testimony among them and bind up the law”’ (Journal of Discourses, Vol. 18, p. 64, July 25, 1875)
I wondered about the curious phrasing of the Lord’s comment in D&C 112 that such turbulent circumstances would begin “upon [his] house”, and if Moroni’s falling trumpet could be a literal fulfillment of that prophecy:
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, darkness covereth the earth, and gross darkness the minds of the people, and all flesh has become corrupt before my face. Behold, vengeance cometh speedily upon the inhabitants of the earth, a day of wrath, a day of burning, a day of desolation, of weeping, of mourning, and of lamentation; and as a whirlwind it shall come upon all the face of the earth, saith the Lord. And upon my house shall it begin, and from my house shall it go forth, saith the Lord; First among those among you, saith the Lord, who have professed to know my name and have not known me, and have blasphemed against me in the midst of my house, saith the Lord (D&C 112:23).
I sent the previous quote in a text to my family with a few of the thoughts expressed here. My parents said nothing. One of five siblings liked the comment. No discussion. I may have heard crickets off in the distance for a couple hours. And then the text conversation continued about other events. Their literal silence, was interpreted in my mind, “It’s just Eric being weird about latter-day events again – more unnecessary fanaticism and panicking.”
I’m not fanatical. I’m not panicking. I study the signs of the times as we’ve been counseled to do, and I watch. And I rejoice in the fulfillment of prophecy. If I can bring anyone else along in the journey, great.
Then as we enjoyed our second week of home church this morning, another inspired quote came to mind:
“This government would dissolve pretty much all the laws that passed by our legislature, and that the time would come that the government would stop the Saints from holding meetings. When this was done the Lord would pour out His judgments” (Orson F. Whitney: The Life of Heber C. Kimball, pages 452-453).
For me and undoubtedly, a great many others on the watchtower, we can not dismiss the signs that seem to be all around us. I am not afraid. Rather, I rejoice in the marvelous plan of our ever wise and eternal Father in Heaven which appears to be unfolding before our eyes.
I close on the words of an ancient prophet which seem to tie the two events of this past week together:
And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard entreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more
Hebrews 12:19
Cricket.
Great job. Thank you for the insight and quotes!
This was the thought I had this morning The fallen trumpet meant our time for preaching is over! God would now preach his own sermons.
“Fools mock but they shall morn.”. Ether 12:26
Thank you Eric! Beautifully expressed…yes we are seeing the unfolding right before our eyes….and fast! Appreciate your study, sharing and testimony.
Nor am I fanatical or doomsday! I have ALWAYS been drawn to the last days and watching, watching, for prophecies to be fulfilled. I DO Find peace and joy in knowing the Lord’s will is rolling forth. AND, I love how much the Lord loves symbolism. Having the trumpet fall upon one of the spires of the temple was a Nice Touch. Keep writing, Eric. We/I need you. (PS). I, too, get crickets from most of my kids and my siblings )
Victoria. Same here. All my life I’ve been watching the signs. It baffles me that others don’t see/feel what I do. I call myself a watchman. I am naturally tuned into SIGNS. Funny that our very family doesn’t see what is right in front of us. Could it be more plain? Sigh.
Crickets over here too except for one sister…
Beautifully expressed truth! Experiencing the earthquake from 80 miles away brought me to my knees for those who were in fear or danger. Later, the specific resulting damage to the temple stopped me in my tracks. I could barely breathe, and the Spirit confirmed the tremendous significance of what I was seeing. Thank you for putting it into words. We crickets are rejoicing with tears in our hearts!
Thank you Eric, for you pour your whole heart , soul and truth into your writings! I feel the truth of this essay and am grateful you’ve shared it. It enables me to share my thoughts on this subject much more eloquently than I would have, were I left on my own without this essay to say it for me. Thanks again for your great essays and for living your truth!!
I so appreciate all that you have shared. I total agree with these thing. Thank you for the time you have spent to help me have a stronger knowledge and testimony of scriptures.
Eric, I know well the sounds of crickets! I too am not fanatical or doomsday. I look forward to the marvelous blessings of days to come! Much thanks for putting words to my thoughts and keeping me company in the summertime fields of crickets.
I agree wholeheartedly. I am fortunate I have two children who are on board and know what these signs mean. I know there will be much death and destruction in the world soon , but I am SO excited to be alive and on the earth with my Saviors return so imminent!!
We live in exciting times, can’t wait for conference 😊
Wow!! I pretty much got the same crickets from my family. I couldn’t agree more!!
Dearest Eric,
My daughter and i spent some time together today. We discussed so much you’ve cited in this blog.
I’M so sorry your family has not rejoiced in your awareness and words. Our family dismisses my daughter and I on these incredible days we, too, see unfolding.
One day we may witness God’s “scroll” unfolding in the heavens. I see that scroll each day.. this week. I see the writings of Isaiah, Daniel, Hosea, Book of Mormon prophets, Joseph and gratefully those brethren you’ve cited.
Their words are open for our celebration as their words declare TODAY, what we are living. God spoke to them. They wrote to speak to us… just as you write and speak to us.
Thank you forever,
Very good Eric, all of those quotes have come to me as well. Its always good to know we are on the same page. No crickets over here. 🦗🦗🦗
Thanks Eric. I remember feeling so much excitement during the solar eclipse a few years ago, knowing it was a fulfillment of prophecy. I feel that same kind of excitement right now, knowing that more prophecies are being fulfilled. I’m not excited for the tribulations and hardships that are coming, but I can’t wait until the Savior returns and there is peace on earth!
You nailed it! I appreciate you sharing that some in your family don’t appreciate your message, that means I’m not alone in the anguish that causes! I’m not afraid but sad for those who think we are nuts. But then I remember that so did many people who heard about Joseph Smith and all that he claimed. I love the Lord and His patience but I know that it has to come to an end and I believe we are there! Hang on world, He is ready to preach His on sermon now!
Love you Eric!!!!! Sue
Thank you Eric for the insights and pearls of wisdom. You truly are a light on a hill. Sadly, there are those who reject the words of truth and “turn and rend you” which has been my case on occasion. I rejoice in the fulfillment of prophecy and know that the Lord is personally joining the laborers in His vinyard for the last time (as illustrated in Jacob 5).
Another great insightful blog post. I feel the same way about sharing your posts or Julie’s messages or even my own thoughts and findings. Crickets.
When I heard about missionaries coming home, angel Moroni dropping his trumpet, the earthquake, wide spread virus infections, etc. I immediately felt that there is more to it than what it appears on the surface.
Thanks again, Eric. Well said.
The quote about the government stopping the Saints from having meetings was a “Whoa!” moment for me, as I had developed preconceived notions about how that might play out, and this wasn’t it. But the Spirit bore powerful witness to me as I read it that it has been fulfilled.
As I studied about trumpets, a few scriptures stood out to me:
•Isa. 27:13 “And it shall come to pass in that day, that the great trumpet shall be blown, and they shall come … and shall worship the Lord in the holy mount at Jerusalem.” Among other things, Moroni’s trumpet has symbolically called people to the temple. As you mentioned, Moroni’s trumpet fell just days after temples throughout the world were closed for proxy work.
•Isa. 58:1 “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” The trumpet was a warning call to repent, especially to the house of Israel.
•Joel 2:1 “Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand;” This verse connected trumpets, warnings, temples, and trembling (earthquakes) for me.
Maybe you’ve seen the meme going around that without his trumpet, it looks like Moroni is looking at his watch. It just feels like “time’s up.”
RayDean, the scriptures you cited are key! You make me want to rewrite this blog, including them. Thanks for sharing!!
Exciting and awesome signs and events!
I’ve been thinking about how important it is that we use some of this quarantine time to write about what is happening. And to have our children write about their experiences as well!
I love knowing that while I may get crickets in close circles, I have friends who believe in these things and enjoy discussing them.
Thanks Eric!
Erin, that’s a great perspective on using this time for record keeping. Yes, the value of having like-minded friends can’t be overstated! Thanks for commenting.
This earthquake was the Wasatch wake up correct?
Possibly. I don’t think so though. I think of it as the wakeup, to the wakeup.
Could this Idaho earthquake be a two day warning?
Last week I told the bishopric that the trumpet falling was symbolic, we’ve been having some meetings on zoom, and they literally laughed at me.
I’ve been in the same boat as you Eric I’ve been preparing and watching for years and I’ve been laughed at n made fun of for it in fact my wife called a wack job a month ago because she found some canned food I’ve been hiding and stocking up under the beds in the basement 🤣 I’ve always been positive about preparing , just reading the scriptures and coming across latter day prophecies gives her anxieties. It’s funny now that they can only buy 1 item (if its available) they are on board with me. It feels good and I welcome it.
Thanks Eric
Rockey Stubbs
Thanks for being courageous and moving forward anyway Rockey! Stories like yours inspire me!
Thank you for this article Eric! it really puts things all together. I shared your article and my own thoughts on the subject of the day of the gentiles, tribulations, and the second wave of missionary work with my priest quorum. My Bishop and others were receptive. Thanks (both you and Julie on your last podcast) for giving me the courage to share and warn. For truly “It becometh every man who hath been warned to warn his neighbor.” (D&C 88:81.)
Eric I love this so much! Thank you. It’s all in one place. I’ve been led to many of these scriptures and quotes and also received mixed reactions when I share with family and friends. I think just about any reaction is better than silence and apathy. Crickets are the worst. I hear you.
But look what you’ve accomplished? By writing these events down you’ve brought comfort to so many. It is so comforting to not be alone in watching for our Savior Jesus Christ to come again.. I can’t thank you and those who have commented here enough. ❤❤
Fantastic article Eric!!
Thanks, brother
Thank you, Eric. It is so strengthening to see how awake you are and how you put two and two together. I totally feel as you do. The teachings and prophecies are being literally fulfilled. God bless you.
Nothing happens by accident. The trumpet falling is definitely a sign from the Lord. I love you. Keep up the good work!
Thank you Eric for sharing those thoughts and for opening the door to all those who have responded. It is good to be among you all. There is so much more to come. I listen to President Nelson’s message almost every day and each time there is more to ponder on. Thank you again.
My Mom and I enjoyed this post Eric. We totally agree in the significance of the trumpet falling and appreciate the quotes you shared. Definitely fulfillment of prophecy unfolding before our eyes.
Thank you, Eric. I always enjoy your thoughts on paper!
I definitely feel there is more to come. I feel like the Lord has allowed this to happen. As he allowed the serpent to tempt Eve. He is telling us get your house in order. I am excited to hear the council of our leaders this weekend.
You hit the nail right on the head. Great job. Many of us are too seeing the signs and watching with baited breath for that which is to come.
Thanks for your article. I appreciate the time and testimony you share. The study and work you put forth is amazing. I am so thankful to have found such a positive recourse of truth and light to add to my study!
Printing this for my records. My thoughts exactly, but you… like always, put them so well in words. Thank you Eric.
Thanks for your article. I don’t think the “servants” who will be called home prior to the Lord’s style of preaching are the full-time missionaries. The earthquake was certainly not “and upon my house shall it begin” event the scripture mentions either.
I do think the dropping of the trumpet was a blatant sign from God and I was astounded when I saw it, but I don’t think it is for the reasons you’re mentioning. Still, I appreciate your essay!
Jason, the problem with writing an essay or book is they are locked in time and don’t reflect the dynamic spiritual journey and greater understanding that has been gained since it was originally written.
I also tend to be careful of statements that involve the words “certainly not”, as none of us really know the mind and heart of God, but I still appreciate your comments.
I knew things were off with the church but when Moroni’s trumpet broke that said a lot to me. I’ve wondered why the church has distanced themselves from Moron? It also spoke strongly about the fall of the LDS church and the temple when a big crack ran down the center of the Salt Lake temple and through the words. “The House of the Lord” it was eerily accurate how the church was broken and had fallen and didn’t represent God or Christ at this point in time!