Nephi's purpose in writing

I sometimes wonder who, if anyone, will read what I have written.  And if no one reads it, what is it's purpose?  I am surprised, that in spite of a lack of readership, I feel a strong desire to continue writing about my thoughts, experiences, and testimony.

The other day, reading in the Book of Mormon I reread these passages, written by Nephi, 

"For the fulness of mine intent is that I may ^apersuade men to^bcome unto the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, and be saved.

Wherefore, the things which are ^apleasing unto the world I do not write, but the things which are pleasing unto God and unto those who are not of the world."

I thought about Nephi's purpose for keeping records, to bless his posterity, and anyone who would believe.  And he wrote not just one record, but at least two that he speaks of.  Nephi's record was written 600 years before the birth of Christ, and it was buried in the earth for many centuries after Christ's birth.  Yet, the Lord preserved it for a purpose, and his voice and testimony is now read and heard throughout the world.

I trust that some small good will come from my words, for the sake of my posterity, in the Lord's time.

Bountiful Utah Temple, Chandelier - Poem

A beautiful crystal chandelier hangs in the center of the Celestial Room of the Bountiful Temple.  One day, while gazing at the countless sparkles of light reflected within it, and in the mirror behind, I felt the spirit whisper about a numerous eternal posterity.  At first, I was thrilled by the symbolism and vision about the future.  However, the next few moments I felt the tremendous weight and responsibility that comes with having a family.  I felt overwhelmed and said a silent prayer, acknowledging my weaknesses and fears.  But again, the spirit whispered that my Father in Heaven would help me learn one moment, or one day at a time.  How is it that the Lord is willing to trust us with his most precious gifts, his children, knowing our imperfections?

As a result of my first impressions, I wrote the following poem.

Chandelier

Celestial Temple mirrors

   Sparkle Chandelier’s reflection,

Points of light and color grow

   With each crystal’s motion

Contemplating stars above

   And countless sand and sea,

Abraham’s promised posterity

   Travel through time to me

Miniature diamond chandelier

   Within my wedding band,

Brilliant sparkling facets

   Reflect husband’s love and children

Beyond us travel the promises

   More than the eye can see,

Whether grain of sand or point of light,

   Shines our eternity

By Janice Harten

7/21/2008

Copyright © 2011 Janice Harten.  All rights reserved.