Yesterday, the Church released for widespread distribution a beautiful video of the events of the First Vision. That video has been on display at the Church History Museum in Salt Lake City, but as far as I am aware it was not widely available before yesterday. It is a remarkable video that integrates the various accounts of the First Vision. I especially loved how the video emphasizes the personal aspects of Joseph Smith’s prayer more than any other telling of the First Vision that I have seen. Here was a 14-year-old boy seeking personal revelation and a remission of sins. I think the added details make the vision even more relatable and personal.
Yesterday there was also a remarkable face-to-face event for youth with Elder Holland and President Eyring. Reflecting their location in Palmyra, New York, the Apostles spent a lot of time talking about prayer, testimony, and gaining a personal witness.
In particular, I was struck by President Eyring’s final invitation and challenge to the youth and I wanted to share that portion of the event here:
““Our dear young friends, that is our desire for each of you. That you may know for yourself, independent of anyone else, that the God of Heaven is real and he knows you, and that his son has atoned for the sins of the world. Our hope is that you will gain for yourself an unshakable testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ.”
Watched it with my kids last night. I too enjoyed the more personal aspect of it as well. The personal aspect makes Joseph Smith’s account line up with other prophets such as Enos who also prayed for a remission of sins before getting an answer to their prayers.