Pillars

From the Book of Mormon
1 Nephi 1:5-6

   5 "Wherefore it came to pass that my father, Lehi, as he went forth prayed unto the Lord, yea, even with all his heart, in behalf of his people.

   6 "And it came to pass as he prayed unto the Lord, there came a pillar of fire and dwelt upon a rock before him; and he saw and heard much; and because of the things which he saw and heard he did quake and tremble exceedingly."

A few times in history has a pillar appeared. To the chosen Smith a pillar of light. To Moses and the Israelites a pillar of fire to guide them throughout the night... but why a pillar?

Could it be the characteristics of a pillar? Something that holds up structures with its strength? I know a pillar is only as strong as its own structure.

Lehi is a pillar that held up the coming forth of the Book or Mormon through his obedience. Joseph Smith is a pillar to the Restoration through fulfilling his calling as prophet of the Restoration. Christ was a pillar to the Israelites in the wilderness, and indeed, were the Israelites learning to be pillars for the Lord and His eternal purposes. They required restrengthening and correction if they were to inherit the promised land.

My mother is a pillar in our family. No matter how or why one of us might drop our level of spirituality, she has always been one to stick us through it, and we deem the endurance worth it.

President Monson has been a pillar in my life: particularly through his counsel and example of rescuing those in need - I am praying to learn His ways through President Monson's example. As I have tried following it, I have seen miracles!

Mormon was an example to me of someone who remained faithful throughout being literally and socially alone. He demonstrated to me that no matter the circumstance, Heavenly Father was watching over Him, and was sending His Spirit to protect, guide and accompany him. He was truly not alone.

Might we too be pillars of righteousness, worthiness and obedience, strong and sturdy for the Lord and for those around us, who need someone to lean on.