Book of Mormon

Just a thought about Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon....

In his account of The First Vision, Joseph went into the woods to pray to find out which church he should join.  He was confused because there were many different churches, all proclaiming to be the true church.  He had read in James 1:5 'that any who lack wisdom, let him ask of God...'.  While praying in the woods, an evil darkness overcame him so that he could not speak.  He thought he was going to die.  Then, a pillar of light descended and the darkness left him.  Heavenly Father and Jesus appeared to him and told him not to join any of the churches because all of the churches were incorrect.  

*I know my summary of the First Vision does not do it justice. Read here for the full, beautiful account.http://lds.org/scriptures/pgp/js-h/1?lang=eng


So, Joseph told people about his experience.  He was ridiculed, mocked, persecuted and eventually murdered because he shared his testimony.

Today I thought about what that must have been like.  I had a hard time telling people that we had decided to homeschool our kids.  I was concerned about their reactions and judgements. That is nothing compared to what Joseph did.  Would I have been able to do what he did?  I'd hope so, but probably not.  I think I would have felt overcome with joy and excitement at receiving the Vision, but I think I'd think that no one would believe me.  I'd be afraid that they would think that I was crazy or a liar.  (Which a lot of people think/thought about Joseph.)  But he did not care.  He stood at a witness in spite of what other people said or thought about him.

I love the Book of Mormon.  We are about halfway through are Book of Mormon Challenge of reading it in 60 days.  I'm so grateful for this challenge.  It has not been easy, but it's been amazing for Matt and I.  So many blessings already.  We are so grateful.

The Book of Mormon is the true word of God.  Reading this book brings so much joy and peace into your life.  For a free copy of the Book of Mormon click here:

http://mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon/.