Reflection~The Book of Mormon

My first assignment for my Book of Mormon 1 class was to right a reflection paper on our relationship with the Book of Mormon. I loved doing it, and I wanted to share it. Periodically (or maybe frequently--not sure yet), I will post some of my reflection papers for you to read.

In October of 2009, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles gave a bold and stirring address regarding the Book of Mormon. I believe no ear that heard his conviction that day or in days subsequent has the ability to forget the power of his testimony. My own words are far from eloquent enough to do his discourse justice, so I now use a few of his words:

…I did not sail with the brother of Jared in crossing an ocean, settling in a new world. I did not hear King Benjamin speak his angelically delivered sermon. I did not proselyte with Alma and Amulek nor witness the fiery death of innocent believers. I was not among the Nephite crowd who touched the wounds of the resurrected Lord, nor did I weep with Mormon and Moroni over the destruction of an entire civilization. But my testimony of this record and the peace it brings to the human heart is as binding and unequivocal as was theirs. Like them, ‘[I] give [my name] unto the world, to witness unto the world that which [I] have seen.’ And like them, ‘[I] lie not, God bearing witness of it.’

My testimony of the Book of Mormon may be neither as articulate nor as powerful as Elder Holland’s, but I look forward to the day when I can say in such unhesitating and bold language that I know of the Book of Mormon’s verity. It is my hope that this class will aide me in my journey to this end. Although I do not possess the articulacy of Elder Holland, or the faith of Abinidi, or the patience of Joseph Smith, I have read and prayed about the Book of Mormon. I’ve heard before that the Church is all about asking questions—indeed, it would not exist today had it not been for the sincere question of a fourteen-year-old boy in the spring of 1820. I have asked more than once, and continue to ask, to know for myself if the Book of Mormon is truly the word of God. And in accordance with my humble pleas to know and Heavenly Father’s desire to let me know, I have been blessed to receive a testimony of the Book of Mormon. In fact, my favorite chapter in all of the standard works is 2^nd Nephi 33.  The eleventh verse of that chapter states, “…Christ will show unto you, with power and great glory, that they are his words, at the last day” (emphasis added). Certainly, the Book of Mormon is a testament of Jesus Christ, and each faithful man, woman, and child in it is a representative of Him.

I can’t remember the last time I went a day without reading from the scriptures. Even during the Seminary years in which we covered the New or Old Testaments, or Doctrine and Covenants, the Book of Mormon was a consistent companion and aide. Daily scripture study—especially that of the Book of Mormon—has transformed me into a more confident, loving, and sincere individual.

I recall telling a friend who is currently serving a mission that I find the Book of Mormon to be the most beautiful book I have laid eyes on. This, I know, is not solely because I find the blue background and gold lettering on the cover exceptionally appealing, but because I know what is inside of the book. To Elder Holland’s testimony, I add my own. And I do so with the aspiration of attaining a most solid and unwavering conviction through my study and faith and Heavenly Father’s grace.

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