How to start this post is somewhat challenging. My heart is broken. I am reminded of a video about a boy who had been to the dentist. The effects of the anesthesia had not completely worn off yet and so he asked in his bewildered state, "Is this real life?" I ask myself the same question. 

Just a heartbeat away (or so it seems) we were in the capital city of Kyiv, rubbing shoulders with our Ukrainian friends. We moved freely among them soaking up their culture and becoming acquainted with their food and wonderful bread. Now, we have learned that our friends must now find shelter as their lives are in peril. The fortunate ones who live near the temple are now huddled together in the basement of the patron house. The feeling is surreal as I ponder on how quickly our life in Ukraine was flipped upside down.

We read in Matthew 24 about the prophesied events of the last days before the second coming of Jesus Christ. We imagine what those things might be like, but our minds have trouble accepting the reality of it when it actually appears, especially when it is in your backyard. We also read in D&C 45 that in the last days that men's hearts will fail them (for fear). We can't afford to be fainting goats that freeze up when startled. The one thing I have learned about Ukrainians (and I think the whole world has learned recently), is that they do not fear their oppressors. I am reminded of the many times the Nephites went to battle for their wives, their children and their religion. Their cause was noble and just - never the aggressor. 

When the king of Syria sought to have a war with Israel, he told his captains a certain location to start the attack. Elisha, the Lord's prophet, told the king of Israel to avoid that certain location. He did. The king of Syria was troubled because the army of Israel knew his intentions. He asked his servants who could have done this. He was told that Elisha can know the words the king might speak in his bedchambers. He sent an army to Dothan and surrounded the city with the intent to kill Elisha. A servant came running to inform Elisha of the Syrian army. He asked, "Alas, my master! how shall we do?"  His answer, was very similar to the words we have heard from our prophet today - "Fear not."  Elisha prayed that the eyes of the servant might be opened. The Lord opened his eyes and he saw that the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire -- angels from the world of spirits to fight the battle for Elisha.  

God has his eye on Ukraine, but he also has his eye on Russia. Both countries are populated with children of God. He does things perfectly, at all times. His means and his timing do not always make sense to us. Someday they will. 

Can we call upon heaven to send ministering angels for help as was done with Elisha? Yes!  Let's ask for it. But perhaps help is already in place, and our eyes cannot see it just yet. Look at what is happening all around the world. Countries are offering sanctuary, food, medicine, armament, troops, and many other accommodations. There are rallies and demonstrations in almost every country. In this, there is a common thread: people want to be free.  In the end, God will prevail.

Amid the darkening skies ahead, may the future of Ukraine be bright.