April 29-May 5: Mosiah 4-6
A Mighty Change
Adam D. Thomas (American, born 1967)
Planting the Promises (2018) mixed media, 98 x 40 x 40 inches
Collection of the artist artist’s website
Used with permission of the artist
In Adam D. Thomas’s sculpture, above, from the canopy of a living tree, raised on a pedestal, a single rope ladder descends to touch the dirt representing the earth or telestial sphere. Some ladders extend downward half-way from the canopy. Others to the root ball and some continue to the floor and beyond. Describing the symbolism of his work, the artist writes, “Covenants and connections throughout the generations can only be made in the temples of the Lord. The title is a specific reference to words used only by Moroni in visiting the young Joseph Smith in regards to the coming of Elijah. This restoration event and prophecy is not unlike the urging, encouraging and hopeful words of King Benjamin as he teaches from the temple, to families about covenants. Benjamin's testimony of Christ and His saving power through making and keeping covenants gave his people great faith and hope. With that faith they joyfully embraced a covenant to obey, follow and serve. So great was their faith that they were to be called the children of Christ. As well should we be encouraged to be steadfast and immovable in keeping our covenants that we too may be brought to heaven, not only individually, but as families, through He, whom created all things.”
Discussion Questions:
1. Having heard King Benjamin's sermon, his people felt the overwhelming weight of their sins and sincerely repented. They then felt their sins were forgiven and "were filled with joy" and "peace of conscience" (Mosiah 4:3). What feelings have you experienced related to repentance and forgiveness?
2. Speaking of the love of God, King Benjamin refers to "tast[ing] of his love" (Mosiah 4:11). With what senses can you experience God's love?
3. Having entered into a covenant with God to obey all of His commandments for all of their days, the people of King Benjamin (now called the children of Christ) were "made free" (Mosiah 5:8). How do covenants to obey make us free?
For Children and Youth:
1. King Benjamin described our Heavenly Father as filled with goodness, powerful, wise, patient and long-suffering towards us (Mosiah 4:6). When have you been blessed by God's power through someone demonstrating one of these Godly characteristics towards you?
2. King Benjamin teaches that we should share (Mosiah 4: 16-21, 26). Why is sharing important? How do you feel when someone shares with you? How do you feel when you share with others? What can you do this week to share with someone else?
3. How can changing your heart toward Jesus change the way you think about yourself? How can it change the way you think about others? (Mosiah 5)