The Sacred Valley

Such a prayer I never heard from the lips of man. I left him alone praying. I went home and told my wife, "I saw a sight and heard today what I never saw or heard before," and just related to her what I had seen and heard and observed. We never thought a man could be a soldier and a Christian, but if there is one in the world, it is Washington. We thought it was the cause of God, and America could prevail.
____________________________Isaac Potts

I went to Valley Forge this afternoon. It is holy ground. It marked a turning point in the American Revolutionary War. I walked where General George Washington walked. And I was moved...spiritually and emotionally. This was his headquarters during the Winter of 1777-1778. Not a single fire was shot at Valley Forge, yet 2000 of an army of 12,000 men died for the cause of freedom here. And it proved to be a victorious campaign. The army was tested. Their cause was tested. I believe Washington was tested here far greater than he was in any other battle of weapons. His will was tested...his faith was tested. And he chose to serve God despite the hardship. The army left this valley refined and prepared to endure several more years of war because of Washington's leadership here.

I walked the National Park wondering where the General offered his prayer of gratitude and supplication. I wondered if he passed by his men on his way to pray. Offering them words of encouragement...making sure they were as comfortable as they could be given the harsh circumstances. Reminding them of the cause of freedom similar to another great captain 1800 years earlier--"In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children..." (Alma 46:12)

And then after visiting with his men, perhaps he continued walking alone. I looked for a grove of trees that may have been suitable for him. Wondering if he may have chosen an area with three majestic trees...symbolizing the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Or perhaps General Washington walked further. Perhaps across this field and into a more secluded area. "And therefore, at this time, Moroni prayed that the cause of the Christians, and the freedom of the land might be favored. And it came to pass that when he had poured out his soul to God, he named all the land....A chosen land, and the land of liberty." (Alma 46:16-17)

Although I do not know the exact location of his prayer, the spirit of this sacred valley can still be felt today. His prayer must have been so sincere, heartfelt, and according to the will of God that the spirit of that prayer lives on. I felt something as I walked this valley. And I will forever thank God that George Washington lived his life in such a way that he was able to take part in preparing this land for the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I can't wait to meet him someday. It will be an honor to be in his presence.