March 7, 2000

Zion occurs when the people are of one heart, one mind, and dwell in righteousness. (D&C Section 36h) To be of one heart is all persons seeking to love God. To be one mind is to serve God. And dwelling in righteousness is only dealing with each other in kind, empowering ways.

Thus it is true what the D&C says "Zion is no closer or farther away than the people." However, Zion is attainable. In fact, you have already experienced it in your life for brief moments.

A reunion or youth camp, a retreat or friendships all serve as small "Zion bubbles." These bubble Zions exist for a time and place, and as the oneness leaves, so does Zion.

Now, what is "Zion?" Zion just means peace. The warm, fuzzy, safe place, where you belong and where you are allowed to become what God wants you to be. God calls us to build such a place for the whole world. We do this through making these bubbles of Zion wherever and whenever possible, learning as we go how to make them last longer and grow bigger.

But one person cannot single-handedly create Zion for everyone. The each person can choose to create a Zion bubble through focusing on God. Or they can choose not to.

Thus each person must make herself ready to be a part of Zion. Or, as the Book of Mormon says "Blessed are they who shall seek to bring forth my Zion at that day, for they shall have the gift and the power of the Holy Ghost; and if they endure to the end, they shall be lifted up at the last day, and shall be saved in the everlasting kingdom of the Lamb." (BoM 1 Nephi 3:187)

Good Luck in your efforts to blow Zion bubbles by being kind and loving with all those you meet.