The kids and I are coming to the end of the Book of Mormon once again. Together we've crossed the ocean, fought battles, buried weapons of war, witnessed the coming of the Savior, and watched as an entire civilization destroyed itself. Truly an epic story, and one I'm so grateful to know about.
However, this means we will be starting, from the beginning, again. We will once again immerse ourselves in the troubles, triumphs, and tribulations of Brother and Sister Lehi and Family. They could be the "family next door." He's a successful businessman and she's an upstanding mother trying her best to raise her children in difficult times. When Lehi receives the inspiration that it is time to "leave the world," he faces incredible opposition, even from within his own family. His sons are at times righteous, judgmental, divisive, loyal, faithful, full of hate, worldly, etc... as they try and follow their parents on their quest to follow the Lord's instructions. Even Lehi and Sariah have their moments of triumph and failure which is written down for millions of us to read about. I don't know about you, but I'm glad my failings aren't etched in gold for the world to read.
One of the most famous stories in church history is how Joseph Smith lent his good friend, Martin Harris, the first 110 pages of the translated Book of Mormon so Mr. Harris's wife could see them. Although the Lord had warned Joseph against this course of action, Joseph chose to go ahead. The pages were lost and the Lord forbade the re-translation of the work. Thus, the overall order of the book was changed moving 1 Nephi to it's place of prominence as the first book in the Book of Mormon.
Looking ahead to those who would be reading this book, it was clearly an act of wisdom to put the story of this family first. We all have the struggles they do, though maybe without some of the more dramatic elements. The part I find the most fascinating is how many times people read 1 Nephi, over and over, because they "resolve" to read their scriptures again, and of course, start at the beginning. There are all sorts of reasons why 1 Nephi is read and re-read, but I think there is great purpose in the placement of this story. Heavenly Father knew we wouldn't be perfect scriptorians, spending all our time in study, and therefore, placed this story first so it, at least, would be read.
In fact, I think we can find ourselves in every single one of the characters at different times of our lives. The faith of Lehi, the hope of Sariah and their sadness as they watch people they love make terrible choices. The courage and leadership of Nephi who spends some time later in life crying for those he, perhaps, pushed away by the zealousness of his youth. The loyalty of Sam who doesn't earn great amounts of glory, but just quietly goes about trying to obey, but perhaps didn't do his part to help mend the rift among his brothers. And then there's Ishmael and his family, but that's another post for another time.
The Lehi Family saga is classic in its story and timeless in its truth. Although I'm glad we made it all the way through, I'm looking forward to heading out into the dessert again as they make their way to their "promised land" helping me make my way toward mine.
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2 comments:
We have been thinking a lot about Sam lately and the comparison that has been drawn by others to Hyrum Smith. I think Sam is a picture of the person who continues to do what he needs to do and faithfully supports his brother. The point you raised brings some interesting possibilities. What if Sam was the bridge that helped Laman and Lemuel come along on the trip, etc. Was his the voice of reason such as Hyrum's?
This was a thoughtful post. Thank you for sharing your insights---I had not thought of some of these. Great food for thought!
Very insightful, Lish, thanks. =]
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