A brilliant, in depth appraisal of the tree of life symbolism as it applies to us all in these dark latter days of ridicule and denial of the standards God has decreed, echoing Isaiah’s prediction of dark considered light and wrong considered right, before the second coming of Jesus Christ.
23:24 "[T]he dream, or vision, that Lehi had ... all the things that you need to know are there. Read it and make it a part of your life. ... Just move forward doing the things ... we are called to do and know that the Lord is guiding us."
Starting a year or so ago and before encountering this talk today, the vision of the tree of life has specially stood out to me as one of the most significant and unique parts of the Book of Mormon. I noticed, just as President Packer pointed out, that the Bible has nothing like it. I realized that this vision really is a complete template for mortality. I noticed that Nephi didn't just hear and ponder Lehi's vision but sought to know the vision himself (1 Ne 10 :17; 11:1-3, 6). I've realized I can also see it, if the Lord lets me, and I've been asking to know it, to see and know any details or parts that can help me individually, same as Nephi noticed different parts than Lehi did. Anyway, this is a talk that really everyone, especially all latter-day saints, should know! I can't believe it's been here 9 years with only 24 comments, 2,300 likes, 167,000 views, and only 107,000 BYU Speeches subscribers! The best things on RU-vid and in media always get too little attention!
I love this awesome apostle of God! He has always given great guidance and support to us!❤ This truly is a fabulous appraisal of this vivid vision Lehi and Nephi we’re blessed to have and share with us that we may be prepared
I have experienced being mocked. Clearly easy to brush it off or to stand up for what I believe with testimony. Not too long ago, I had experienced a group of people and continue to experience them mocking me. The next morning when I woke up, I felt the Spirit, and I felt the pain and sorrow. Jesus Christ felt, because he felt bad for me due to the mocking, but He also knew if they mocked me, they were mocking Him. It was a very sorrowful feeling, and I really just wanted to give Him a hug, because not only did he understand my pain, but how sorrowful I felt for Him to have to continuously experience our pain, because he already experienced it in the Garden of Gethsemane. Oh how I love my Savior, how I love my Heavenly Father, how grateful I am for the gift of the Holy Ghost, and for administering angels. The whole process of being a human is a refinement, and one to not resent, but to be grateful for the understanding and love we gain from the experience. I certainly have been praying for Jesus Christ to come, for the work to be hastened, because I want to thank Him, and be in a place where children can roam safely, where people love one another, and do not seek to mock one another.
I was fortunate not to have served till after the shooting had stopped, I served in Germany when the rubble filled the streets, and people were hungry and humble. I had a buddy who was a Mormon boy, he asked me If I wanted to attend church with him, I went with him and was converted. My life was changed forever. I love the Gospel more than anything God bless you all. Stay true to your testimony.
I watched this today as additional insight into that same chapter, as well as 1 Nephi 11. If we needed more assurance that revelation is needed as much today as in olden times, President Packer provides it. It is after you have eaten of the fruit that your test comes...
Not long ago I proposed the question to my daughter whether the internet and much of social media were the “great and spacious building” of today. Later I wondered if my idea was too incorporating. After hearing Elder Packer’s statement at 13:57 I know I was on track.
If we look, each of us can find ourselves in Lehi's dream. Hopefully, we will be holding on to the iron rod and making our way to the Tree of Life, and then staying by the tree.
Nephi speaks throughout his writings about reading the scriptures available such as the words of Isiah consistently. His older brothers did not and continuously stumbled even though they at times were humbled by amazing spiritual experiences and temporarily righteous. It appears the key was consistently reading the words or holding onto the iron rod. Their lives were examples of the interpretation of the dream.
I will just add….I know that what he says is true, for I have lived and learned. I have one lesson I am still working on, but I know that I can conquer as I follow the Lord in faith. He is my guide. Do NOT listen to the pride of the world…no matter where it is. Do not be deceived by those who mock if you are trying to stay on the path, and partake of the love of God. Remember, no one else can sway you if you trust the Lord, and not man, when he mocks. Ask him to lead you to true friends who will lift and encourage you.
Hi, Roberto. To what dream of Joseph, Sr., do you refer, if you would kindly help me with a reference to read? Starting a year or so ago and before encountering this talk today, the vision of the tree of life has specially stood out to me as one of the most significant and unique parts of the Book of Mormon. I noticed, just as President Packer pointed out, that the Bible has nothing like it. I realized that this vision really is a complete template for mortality. I noticed that Nephi didn't just hear and ponder Lehi's vision but sought to know the vision himself (1 Ne 10:17; 11:1-3, 6). I've realized I can also see it, if the Lord lets me, and I've been asking to know it, to see and know any details or parts that can help me individually, same as Nephi noticed parts Lehi didn't. Anyway, this is a talk that really everyone, especially all latter-day saints, should know! I can't believe it's been here 9 years with only 24 comments, 2,300 likes, 167,000 views, and only 107,000 BYU Speeches subscribers! The best things on RU-vid and in media always get too little attention!
Great games have great expansion packs, as well great blessings lead to great nations. What a fruitful way of living. May God forbid the inflation that assolates what should be graceful, we live to give back what has being giving or else the keepers are wannabes owners. Theres a parable about that in a expansion pack. If the New Testament is a joyfull update then dont forget to get rid of the fixes it brought to the game of life. This man spot very well the wisdom behind the absurds that the Master had do draw an overview over and over again to point the flaws. The situation fools many but not the integer, the watchful disciple and the academic that keeps his Soul.
I agree fully with Pres. Boyd Packer's talk. It is important to follow Our Savior's commandments. and you will find a true happiness and a true peace. Thanks for sharing.
