In February of 1846, most of the residents of Nauvoo were making preparations to evacuate and abandon the city, their temple, and their homes in the face of intense persecution. Just two days before their anticipated departure, Eliza Ann Graves Rich went into labor earlier than anticipated giving birth to a tiny, frail baby who was so small she was described as “no bigger than a pint of cider”. (Sarah D. Pea Rich) Her husband’s responsibilities and obligations required his immediate removal and he didn’t know what to do. “I can’t take you; it would mean certain death to you and the baby. What shall we do?” he asked. Eliza replied, “Bless me…and if you promise me I will be safe, I am not afraid.” (Charles C. Rich, Leonard J. Arrington, 90)
Eliza’s mother came to care for Eliza and her new baby as the wagons began to roll across the frozen Mississippi. The baby was slow to gain health. Winter turned to spring and
then summer and Eliza and her mother began to run low on provisions. There were those who rejoiced and contributed to her difficult circumstances so Eliza and her mother weren’t sure what to think when the wife of one of those in the mobs arrived with flour, sugar and other supplies. At first, Eliza feared the food was poisoned but in her desperation she chose to trust and the supplies sustained her, her mother and baby as they waited to rejoin their family heading west. (Letter from Sarah D. Pea Rich to Mary Bratton Rich)
Receiving unexpected, generous care in our need is a glimpse of heaven and a glimpse of how the Savior loves us. “One of the easiest ways to identify a true follower of Jesus Christ is how compassionately that person treats other people…His true disciples build, lift, encourage, persuade, and inspire—no matter how difficult the situation…we can literally change the world—one person and one interaction at a time….the best is yet to come for those who spend their lives building up others.” (President Russell M. Nelson, April 2023)
We feel and reflect the Savior’s love as we walk in kindness and compassion for all of His children and believe the best is yet to come.