Oct. 28-Nov. 3: Mormon 1-6
"I Would That I Could Persuade All ... to Repent"
Gifty Annnan-Mensah (American, born Ghana, 1949)
He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands (2022)
Acrylic, canvas, paint, ink, 22 x 26 x 0.75 inches
Collection of the artist
Mormon’s message of repentance is universal. After witnessing the Nephites struggle in the aftermath of war, He attempts to convey what may have saved his people much difficulty and heartache: turning to Christ. Gifty Annnan Mensah’s painting encapsulates Mormon’s description of the Savior standing “with open arms to receive you” (Mormon 6:17) and is aptly named after the familiar Black spiritual song: He’s Got The Whole World In His Hands.
Discussion Questions:
Ammaron, an older man, perceived unique abilities in 10-year-old Mormon ("thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe") (Mormon 1:2). Carefully watch the children around you in your family, neighborhood or congregation and compliment a child on specific characteristics and behaviors that you see in her/him. How is this following Jesus?
Mormon describes that "it is by the wicked that the wicked are punished" (Mormon 4:5). Explain to your family or study group a situation where you have seen this to be true.
Mormon explains that those who follow Satan are "as chaff is driven before the wind, or as a vessel is tossed upon the waves, without sail or anchor, or without anything wherewith to steer her" (Mormon 5:18). How does this compare to the security and guidance given to us when we follow Jesus? Can you think of a time when you felt Jesus' steadying power in your life?
Questions for Youth & Children:
Ammaron told 10-year-old Mormon that there was something very important that Mormon was to do when he became 24 years old (Mormon 1:2-4). Even before that, Mormon was even the leader of an army when he was just 16 years old (Mormon 2:1-2). Like Mormon, there are many important things that you will do in your life. What can you do now to prepare for the rest of your life? What specific things can you do now to follow Jesus?
When Moroni's army did not have the Spirit of the Lord with them, they were weak (Mormon 2:26). How have you felt the Spirit of the Lord make you strong?
Moroni explains that when we repent, we can be "clasped in the arms of Jesus" (Mormon 5:11). Have you ever felt a really strong hug from someone that you love? How did it make you feel to be wrapped in the arms of someone who loves you? Draw a picture, write a poem, or make something that represents how it feels to be "clasped in the arms of Jesus."
