Embark! by John Bytheway–Review
Are you ready for an adventure?
Let’s Embark!
This great talk Embark by John Bytheway is the perfect way to kick off this year’s youth theme for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
In this talk that introduces the theme, John focuses on what it means to embark—and how to not only embark, but to “stay on the train” and follow the adventure of gospel living all the way through life. He uses great imagery with trains and ships, combined with the words of our prophets to really bring this topic to life.
One of my favorite lines in his talk is an adaptation of an old quote about growing trees: “The best time to board the Zion Express was a long time ago, but if you’re not already on the train, the second best time is right now.” It is definitely time to get on board and to stay on board. The train seems to be picking up speed and I don’t want to miss a minute of this journey.
And of course, there is the trademark Bytheway humor, like his opening conversation with Siri’s ruder, more expensive brother, who is also high in fiber (see, now you’ll have to listen if you want to know what that is all about).
The theme comes from the fourth section of the Doctrine & Covenants, known to many as the “missionary section.” Ok, maybe I’m the only one who remembers that from seminary, but missionary work is always what I think of when I read Section 4. By the way, this is the only place in the scriptures where we find the word embark.
Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.
~Doctrine & Covenants 4:2
When I think of embarking, I think of heading out on an adventure—and that’s exactly what really living the gospel is. In his talk, John provides some beautiful and touching stories that illustrate the adventure of gospel living. I was especially touched by the story of Brad, the boy who couldn’t climb the rope. It almost made me wish I could go back and be that kind of example in my high school years (but just almost—because I’d rather try and be that way now than go back to high school).
Whether you are looking for some motivation to embark on your own adventure of gospel living or whether you want to help inspire your youth, Embark is a great introduction to this year’s youth theme.
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You can purchase your own copy of Embark by John Bytheway at Deseret Book.
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