Why Is The First Vision Important: Part 2

Get this week's lesson here.

I have given this lesson before!  It is such a wonderful subject!  To see how I have presented it in the past, check out my other post here.

To change things up a bit, I had the girls off on their own for the majority of the lesson.  We went outside and had each girl separate so she could have a spot to be alone without any distractions.  I decided to approach it this way for two reasons...

1: To give the girls the perspective of Joseph Smith when he journeyed out to the Sacred Grove alone.

2: So this could be between them and their Heavenly Father.  Having a testimony of the First Vision is such an important part of the gospel.  It seems to me, once you have a firm testimony of this event, everything else just falls into place.  I was hoping that them having this peaceful alone time could help to better to invite the spirit and know for themselves that Joseph Smith was a true prophet.

Each girl was given an envelope with activities inside to guide them through their self-lesson.  I found some leaves in the yard and dried them using wax paper and an iron a few days before.  With the magic of a little bit of Mod Podge, they should stick just fine.

Each packet included directions on what to do, a picture from the first vision for a bookmark, a journal page, and a pencil.  Note to self: Next time I do this I will also throw in a couple Kleenexes for any of the girls that might get emotional.

Along with the packet, everyone needed a set of scriptures and I passed out little blankets for them to sit on so their skirts didn't get dirty in the grass.

Side note: While taking these pictures for the blog, Stuntman was NOT making it easy for me.  He kept wandering up and photobombing the set or nudging me to convince me to play.  So, here's his little demanded moment of attention and my shout-out to the stubborn kitty.  Cats are jerks.

Here were my directions printed out for the lesson:

Why is the First Vision important?

In the spring of 1820, God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, appeared to the Prophet Joseph Smith.  This vision, which marked the beginning of the Restoration of the gospel, is the most important event since the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Joseph Smith’s humble prayer led to the restoration of gospel truths, priesthood authority, and saving ordinances. 

“That one revelation answers all the [questions] regarding God and his divine personality.  … His interest in humanity through authority delegated to man is apparent.  The future of the work is assured.  These and other glorious truths are clarified by that glorious first vision.

-President David O. McKay

Before you begin your reading, use this moment to say a silent prayer to your Heavenly Father.  Allow Him to help you feel the spirit and humbly ask for His help that your testimony of Joseph Smith’s First Vision may grow and solidify.

Open your scriptures and silently read Joseph Smith-History 1:11-19, 24-25 

[JSH is located near the end of The Pearl of Great Price (Pg 48)].

In the back of your folder is a journal page where I invite you to take a moment to ponder and reflect on how this scripture makes you feel.  You may choose to take this opportunity to record your testimony of Joseph Smith’s first vision.

Do you understand Joseph Smith’s first vision better?  Do you have any additional questions?  Would it be helpful to spend more time on this doctrine?

As soon as you are finished, feel free to pick up your belongings and return to class.