Podcast Summary: “Don't Forget to Remember” • followHIM Favorites • December 2-8 • Come Follow Me

Release Date: November 28, 2024
Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
Title: Don't Forget to Remember • followHIM Favorites • December 2-8 • Come Follow Me

Introduction

In this episode of the followHIM: A Come, Follow Me Podcast, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway delve into the profound themes of remembrance and the Atonement as presented in the Book of Moroni. Through engaging storytelling and insightful discussion, the hosts aim to enrich listeners' understanding and preparation for their weekly Come, Follow Me lessons.

Exploring the Book of Moroni

[00:03] John:
John warmly welcomes listeners to another installment of Follow him. Favorites, where both he and Hank share a story aligned with the weekly Come, Follow Me lesson. He introduces Gerald Lund, an esteemed author who has extensively studied the Book of Moroni, specifically chapters one through six.

[00:27] Gerald Lund:
Gerald shares an evocative story about the sacrament that he encountered at a CES symposium. He recounts how elder Gerald Lund (a different individual with the same name) introduced him to an article from a magazine called Private Practice, which intriguingly linked rock climbing to the concept of the Atonement.

The Belaying Analogy

[00:53] Gerald Lund:
Gerald explains the concept of "belaying" in rock climbing—a safety system where two climbers work in tandem to ensure each other's safety. One climber ascends while the other secures the rope, ready to catch any fall. This mutual reliance serves as a powerful metaphor for the Atonement.

[01:53] John:
John responds candidly, expressing his skepticism about engaging in such a trust-dependent activity, highlighting the depth of trust involved in both belaying and the Atonement.

[01:56] Gerald Lund:
Gerald illustrates the emotional weight of belaying through the story of a climber named Zenzkush. He describes a precarious situation where Zenzkush slips and begins a dangerous fall. In that critical moment, his partner’s strength and presence prevent tragedy. Zenzkush's reaction to his savior—“you always remember him. You never forget him”—serves as a poignant reflection on gratitude and remembrance integral to the sacrament.

Notable Quote:
“How do you respond to somebody who just saved your life? You always remember him. You never forget him.” — Zenzkush [02:15]

Connecting to the Sacrament and Atonement

[03:26] John:
John underscores the connection between the story and the sacrament by emphasizing the phrase “from the fall,” drawing a parallel to the foundational LDS belief in the Fall of Adam and Eve and the redemption offered through the Atonement.

[03:33] John:
He notes the significance of the words “remember” and “remembrance” in both sacrament prayers, highlighting their central role in LDS worship and doctrine.

[03:40] Gerald Lund:
Gerald references President Ezra Taft Benson, who highlighted “remember” as a crucial word, encouraging listeners to observe the acts of remembering and forgetting throughout the Book of Mormon. This reinforces the episode’s theme of intentional remembrance as a cornerstone of faith and discipleship.

Notable Quote:
“When you look in the dictionary for the most important word, do you know what it is? He said it could be remember.” — President Ezra Taft Benson [03:45]

Conclusion and Upcoming Content

[04:05] Gerald Lund:
Gerald humorously remarks on his newfound appreciation for belaying, while John shares his personal apprehension about the activity, bringing a lighthearted close to the deep discussion.

[04:07] John:
John invites listeners to join the full Follow him podcast, introducing the upcoming episode featuring Dr. Chalice Adams, an audiologist who will discuss hearing loss and its relation to the lessons from the Book of Moroni. This preview hints at the podcast’s commitment to blending practical life insights with spiritual teachings.

Key Takeaways

• Belaying as a Metaphor: The practice of belaying in rock climbing serves as a powerful analogy for the Atonement, illustrating the principles of reliance, safety, and salvation.

• The Power of Remembrance: The episode emphasizes the importance of remembering those who save us, paralleling the sacrament’s focus on remembering Christ’s sacrifice.

• Integration of Faith and Daily Life: By connecting a physical activity like rock climbing to spiritual doctrines, the hosts demonstrate how everyday experiences can illuminate and reinforce religious teachings.

Quotes to Remember

• “You always remember him. You never forget him.” — Zenzkush [02:15]

• “When you look in the dictionary for the most important word, do you know what it is? He said it could be remember.” — President Ezra Taft Benson [03:45]

Additional Information

• Show Notes: https://followhim.co
• YouTube Channel: FollowHimOfficialChannel
• Instagram: @followhimpodcast
• Facebook: followhimpodcast

Note: The followHIM Podcast is not affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The views expressed are solely those of the guests and hosts.

This episode of followHIM: A Come, Follow Me Podcast offers listeners a meaningful exploration of remembrance and salvation through a relatable and engaging story. By intertwining personal anecdotes with doctrinal insights, Hank Smith and John Bytheway provide a rich resource for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of their faith.