We'll find the place which God for us prepared,
far away, in the west.
Where none shall come to hurt or make afraid;
there the Saints will be blessed.
We'll make the air with music ring, shout praises to our God and kind.
Above the rest these words we'll tell-
All is well! All is well!
I have always felt that I would not have what it takes to be a pioneer. I am in total awe of them.... Giving up everthing with the faith that there was a Promised Land waiting for them. This hymn gives us a glimpse into the thoughts, feelings, and faith of these amazing pioneers. I am sure it was sung often as they made their journey. The pioneers used music to raise their spirits, pass the time, share and strengthen their testimonies, teach their children, for entertainment, and for motivation.
I wondered how I would have felt singing this as a pioneer. Would I have so much faith that I would whole-heartedly believe the words I was singing? Would I have lost my faith, but had it renewed by the song? Or would I be hanging on to my last thread of faith? It is possible that the pioneers experienced all of these feelings.
Then I pictured what it must have been like to sing these words for the first time in the Promised Land. With a testimony burning that they had been delivered, and that it really was worth all the sacrifice. It brings tears to my eyes to imagine that moment.
For my music spot in Relief Society yesterday I shared these thoughts and had the women sing verse 3. Tears were definitely shed and testimonies were strengthened. I also think this could be easily adapted for a Family Home evening. This hymn can be a great teaching tool for your children!
