This past week we (John Hilton III and Anthony Sweat) had the rare opportunity to be in the presence of prophets. We were invited to attend a social event where two members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and one member of the First Presidency were present. Because it was a social setting, we were able to personally approach these prophets, shake their hands, look into their eyes, ask questions, converse with them, listen to their responses, and feel of their love and testimony. It was a memorable evening. What was so striking was to see them in a setting where they were just as other men—conversing, laughing, eating, and being entertained. Indeed, prophets are mortal and normal in regard to the same human condition we are all in. However, after being in their presence, and especially after hearing their words, the Spirit of God reaffirmed to our minds and hearts that they are indeed special men because of their prophetic mantle. They are the Lord’s anointed. They are his servants on earth who hold the keys of the kingdom. The book True to the Faith says:
“As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we are blessed to be led by living prophets—inspired men called to speak for the Lord, just as Moses, Isaiah, Peter, Paul, Nephi, Mormon, and other prophets of the scriptures. We sustain the President of the Church as our prophet, seer, and revelator—the only person on the earth who receives revelation to guide the entire Church. We also sustain the counselors in the First Presidency and the members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and revelators.
“Like the prophets of old, prophets today testify of Jesus Christ and teach His gospel. They make known God’s will and true character. They speak boldly and clearly, denouncing sin and warning of its consequences. At times, they may be inspired to prophesy of future events for our benefit.
“You can always trust the living prophets. Their teachings reflect the will of the Lord…” (“Prophets,” True to the Faith, (2004),129–30).
After being in the presence of prophets and hearing their words, our testimonies were confirmed once again that we are indeed blessed to have living prophets, seers, and revelators on earth once more.
