The evacuation of missionaries from Europe at the outbreak of World War II is a harrowing tale filled with many close calls and miracles. Following the aftermath of World War I, dark clouds of war again gathered in Germany in 1938. Church leaders in Salt Lake City were understandably concerned, and it was determined it was time to implement a plan to withdraw the missionaries. Elder Joseph Fielding Smith, who was touring the European missions during the summer of 1939, was appointed by the First Presidency to supervise the evacuation. He and his wife Jesse were among the last Church personnel to make it through the Dutch border before it was closed. The blessings of having apostles and prophets to guide the children of the Lord cannot be overemphasized. Their presence brings protection, both physical and spiritual. There are many cycles in The Book of Mormon that show the blessings of their leadership, followed by times of pride in which they are rejected and even killed. Towards the end of the book, the people have become so wicked that the Lord finally removes His servants altogether due to their disobedience. It was the final spiritual evacuation of prophets that takes place in The Book of Mormon, and heralded the impending destruction of the Nephites.
Mormon 1:13 But wickedness did prevail upon the face of the whole land, insomuch that the Lord did take away his beloved disciples, and the work of miracles and of healing did cease because of the iniquity of the people.
14 And there were no gifts from the Lord, and the Holy Ghost did not come upon any, because of their wickedness and unbelief.
LESSON LEARNED: The blessings of having apostles and prophets are physical ones as well as spiritual, and cannot be overemphasized. Their withdrawal from amongst a people is an impending sign of forthcoming destruction.
FEEDBACK: HOW DOES THIS IMPACT YOUR APPRECIATION OF HAVING APOSTLES AND PROPHETS?
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