Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum or the Twelve Apostles said: ‘Do we believe in angels–heavenly messengers? Absolutely. Those shepherds knew. Angels provided comforting reassurance to them.
Now in the latter days, we rejoice in the Restoration of the gospel. Many heavenly messengers, including angels, have participated. They have been a key part in accomplishing what have seemed impossible in the eyes of the world.
Leading the way for those heavenly messengers were God the Father and Jesus Christ, who commenced the work of the restoration in the year 1820 when They appeared to the fourteen- year-old Joseph Smith. Our Heavenly Father opened this dispensation with this stunning seven-word introduction: “This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!” (1)
That visitation was the first of many appearances of Deity to the young prophet. Other visits included one in Hiram, Ohio, on February 26, 1832. Then Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon “beheld the glory of the Son, on the right hand of the Father”(2) Joseph recorded this description:“We beheld the glory of Son on the right hand of the Father, and received of his fullness; And saw holy angels and them who are sanctified before his throne, worshiping God, and the Lamb, who worship him forever and ever.” And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives! For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father.”(3)
The Lord’s work will not fail. There is no safer place on earth, no greater assurance of protection and eternal safety than embracing Christ’s latter-day work and so keeping covenants of eternal perspective and promise. kdm
