I don’t for the life of me know why, but the other day while driving in the car, I was thinking about the Parthenon in Athens, Greece. I remember from grade school discussing the math and architecture that went into constructing that edifice. Not only does it include principles of counter-perspective (for example, why the pillars look evenly spaced even though they aren’t) but also mathematical principles like the golden ratio.

It’s phenomenal, and they did it thousands of years ago. I mentioned this to my wife who was in the car with me (and who has become acquainted with my random thought processes). I said, “I can’t even begin to think about where I would even begin to start thinking about where to start building something like that.”

She said, “Sometimes it feels like we are a lot dumber today in that respect.”

Perhaps, but even so, I also considered how technology automates so much of the calculations in life. So I asked the question, “or, does it allow us to focus on what’s more important?”

She said she hadn’t thought about it that way before and honestly, neither had I.

Today more than ever, technology and equipment (often referred to as capital in economics), allows people (referred to as labor) to do more. For example, members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are able to conduct regular interviews with potential mission presidents and temple presidents all over the world without leaving Salt Lake. While they are relatively few in number, the Lord’s laborers can extend their reach further with capital. Perhaps you’ve also had a satellite stake conference, where presenters from Salt Lake were able to take the time to deliver a personalized message to your area.

Latter-day saints in the early 1980s experienced a similar “upgrade” with the cross-referenced standard works. What would have taken a great number of individuals to collectively know about the scriptures can now be understood and applied by a single individual.

Today the internet provides access to the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ to virtually anyone. The Lord is blessing the work through these wonderful innovations in technology. Much like the servants we’ve been given talents that if used properly can generate much good and “income” into the Kingdom (remember, he that hath eternal life is rich). I came across this 1981 comment by President Gordon B. Hinckley regarding how technology and innovation will further the work of the Kingdom. I find it particularly remarkable 30 years later how in so many ways his words are coming true.

Thanks for reading.

P.S. The original poster of the YouTube Video is responsible for the video title. While the internet is certainly part of it, I would say President Hinckley’s inspired comment extends much farther.