As I was reading and reflecting today, Sunday, October 19, 2008, in Jacob 6-7, Book of Mormon, the overwhelming impression seared my soul with these words, "Oh be wise; what can I say more?" Jacob, beloved youngest brother of Nephi, wise and articulate prophet whom Nephi entrusted not only with the precious plates but also to guide and teaching the people, sums up his 5 chapters of teaching and crying repentance to the people.

"I beseech you in words of soberness that ye would repent, and come with full purpose of heart, and cleave unto God as he cleaveth unto you. And while his arm of mercy is extended toward you, in the light of the day, harden not your hearts." He mentions 3 times to "harden not your hearts." Oh, we are living in a world of hardened hearts and deaf ears. After this plea, Sherem comes on the scene and challenges Jacob's words and message, looking for a sign. He got a sign all right, one in retrospect he would had wished not to receive!! Too late to repent, Sherem dies within days claiming his evil words to the people and fearing his own eternal damnation. But most astonishing was the result of his late repentance--"the power of God came down upon them, and they were overcome that they fell to the earth." Jacob was thrilled as he had prayed earnestly for their hearts to be touched and repentance occur. Then as a follow-up, he exclaimed that 'peace and the love of God was restored. Jacob then leaves us with a subtle message, one easily overlooked if speed-reading...he states that "they searched the scriptures." It seems Sherem was admonishing us that this is the sure way to not be deceived by evil and designing men. Joseph Smith Matthew 1:37 states that "whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived." If we are wise, we surely will follow this counsel.