The Lord commands the Anti-Nephi-Lehi people to flee for safety. In all ages, the Lord has instructed the Saints: “Behold, it is my will, that all they who call on my name, and worship me according to mine everlasting gospel, should gather together, and stand in holy places” (D&C 101:22; compare 45:32). There is refuge and safety in gathering together in circles of Zion where strength comes through affinity with like-minded groups and congregations. For this reason, the Lord instructs Ammon to take the Anti-Nephi-Lehies out of the region of their origin and closer to the center place of the realm where they can be granted safety and protection. As it turns out, the sons of Mosiah will meet Alma on their journey back to Zarahemla (see Alma 27:16-17, compare Alma 17:1–4). The Saints will welcome them in full fellowship and give them the land of Jershon as their inheritance.
This is a stirring example of how the Saints can gather and stand in holy places. In this context, President James E. Faust has asked:
“Who shall stand in his holy place?” May there be extended a helping hand to those who have wavered in their faith or who have transgressed, to bring them back. After fully repenting, they will have a special need for the redemptive portion of the endowment. May they know that their sins will no more be remembered.
As we recall the commandment to stand in holy places, we should remember that beyond the temple, the most sacred and holy places in all the world should be our own dwelling places. Our homes should be committed and dedicated only to holy purposes. In our homes all of the security, the strengthening love, and the sympathetic understanding that we all so desperately need should be found.
“Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place?
“He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully” (Ps. 24:3–4). For “holiness becometh thine house, O Lord, for ever” (Ps. 93:5). (Who Shall Ascend Into the Hill of the Lord?” Ensign, Aug. 2001, 4–5)