HARVEST TIME

Fall is fast approaching. I love fall with the crunch of dried leaves under my feet as I walk around the block enjoying the cool crisp air that smells of falling leaves and just a hint of wood burning stoves.

Fall always makes me hungry for stews, pumpkin pies, and homemade ginger snap cookies.

It is also a time of harvest. The farmers are gathering in their crops, the home gardener is enjoying his fruits and vegetables, and many homes are filled with the smells and sounds of canning and drying.

It reminds me of a scripture in D&C 12:3 "Behold, the field is white already to harvest; therefore, whoso desireth to reap let him thrust in his sickle with his might, and reap while the day lasts, that he may treasure up for his soul everlasting salvation in the kingdom of God." (also repeated in D&C 4:4, and 14:3 - so I figure it must be pretty important)

I have heard this scripture used most often with missionary work, but I want to take a slightly different twist on it.

The field that is ready to harvest is the gospel of Jesus Christ. If we want to reap the blessings of the gospel then we need to put forth the effort that is required for those blessings.

The farmer cannot reap the benefits of his crops unless he goes into the field and does the work of gathering in the crops.

The gardener cannot reap the benefits of his plants unless he goes out into his garden and picks the produce.

And so we must go into the garden of the gospel and work in order to receive the blessings.

The scripture says that we need to reap while the day lasts. I think this means all day long - or without ceasing. It must be a continued effort.

Have you ever tasted a tomato straight out of the garden? The flavor is indescribably delicious. In comparison, a store-bought tomato has no more flavor than a piece of paper. Store-bought produce has to be picked before it is fully ripe and can never reach that full flavor.

What I'm trying to say is, the richest harvest comes straight from the field or garden. The heart of the gospel contains the full flavor and can be enjoyed by all who desire and are willing to "thrust in the sickle".

Why be satisfied with mediocre produce. Begin to enjoy the full flavor today!