dccanon
Doctrine & Covenants
Section 4
Joseph Sr. receives a covenant charge at the opening of the marvelous work — a phrase drawn from Isaiah 29, where the Lord promises an act so sudden it silences the wisdom of the wise. The call is to harvest, not to plant; the field is already white, meaning the prepared remnant already exists and waits only for laborers with desire, faithfulness, and singleness of eye toward Jehovah's glory. Heart, might, mind, and strength frame the Shema pattern — total consecration of the whole person. The virtue-ladder of verse 6 echoes 2 Peter 1, the ascending qualities that confirm the covenant standing of one who would bear such a work.
1
Now behold, a marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men.
2
Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.
3
Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work;
4
For behold the field is white already to harvest; and lo, he that thrusteth in his sickle with his might, the same layeth up in store that he perisheth not, but bringeth salvation to his soul;
5
And faith, hope, charity and love, with an eye single to the glory of God, qualify him for the work.
6
Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, diligence.
7
Ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Amen.
