I teach a family history class. Frequently, I don’t really know how the class is going to proceed until it happens. The scripture “I will give you in the moment…” comes to mind. John Bytheway once said that he can hardly wait to go to a fireside where he will be speaking to find out what message he is going to give.
Rather than just humor, I think the lesson he was teaching is that we rely on the Lord for the direction of our lives. And that is a normal course of action and happens to all those that follow him. For me, this phenomenon happens when I write. Frequently, I know a topic I want to address, but the specifics of that message don’t make themselves known until I am deep into the topic already.
Now instead of this being unique, I believe this is a principle of revelation and trust. This is much like the discussion of whether faith or works is most important. Both are critical and either alone is incomplete. We develop our testimonies as we use them and bearing our testimonies, they are developed and strengthened in the very hour they are needed.
This is not to say that it is easy. On the contrary, I believe it takes great effort and faith. Elder D. Todd Christofferson shares the story of …navy seals,,, today’s treatment… We are not able to reach the stature of Christ as Paul described it, we can do it because we receive our daily bread.
Elder David A Bednar shares the following analogy:
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In my office is a beautiful painting of a wheat field. The painting is a vast collection of individual brushstrokes—none of which in isolation is very interesting or impressive. In fact, if you stand close to the canvas, all you can see is a mass of seemingly unrelated and unattractive streaks of yellow and gold and brown paint. However, as you gradually move away from the canvas, all of the individual brushstrokes combine together and produce a magnificent landscape of a wheat field. Many ordinary, individual brushstrokes work together to create a captivating and beautiful painting.
“Each family prayer, each episode of family scripture study, and each family home evening is a brushstroke on the canvas of our souls. No one event may appear to be very impressive or memorable. But just as the yellow and gold and brown strokes of paint complement each other and produce an impressive masterpiece, so our consistency in doing seemingly small things can lead to significant spiritual results.
“Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great” (D&C 64:33). Consistency is a key principle as we lay the foundation of a great work in our individual lives and as we become more diligent and concerned in our own homes.”
The scriptures and touching, inspirational stories from the life of Jesus Christ provide us part of those brushstrokes in life that give us hope and strength to work together to create a captivating and beautiful experience here on earthly sojourn. Now, we have the opportunity to see these precious stories come to life in the newly-disseminated Bible Video
Details of the movie set creation are available from many other sources and websites.
“This is long-term,” said Elder Lynn G. Robbins of the Seventy, Executive Director of the Media Services Department. “[The set] is being built with materials which can be used for decades to come, not just years to come.” Projections for this movie set estimate as much as a 30-year lifespan.
Electronic scripture stories are available online for individual and family edification, use in church classes and seminary, approved for missionary work and made available for the greater good throughout the world. I remember back when the first few were released. A new video was introduced every so often and over time, the select digital witnesses became an army of digital recordings and testaments of the life of Jesus Christ for the first time ever.
These Bible videos are now available with more than 100 of the videos depicting the life of Christ and many more sharing stories and experiences from New Testament times. According to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, “The Life of Jesus Christ Bible Videos will inspire you to strengthen your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.” That’s their purpose.
Former articles in 2011 about the creation of the Jerusalem movie set for Bible videos
Just as you have favorite scripture stories, you will develop favorite Bible videos. I already have so many favorites that shed further light and understanding on topics I knew little about. And those parables and scripture stories I knew and loved, the Bible videos have helped me to appreciate them even more. Stand with Christ the day he is condemned before Pilate, pain with Peter as he realizes his error and weeps, bear witness with Paul of your commitment to Christ’s mission and rejoice in his atonement.
Somehow, the Bible videos bring to life the stories we have heard throughout our lives and makes them relevant and pertinent in our own lives today. The actors are impeccable, the sets believable, and the experiences formidable. As you come to know these stories through the video and audio of digital testimonies, your life will change. Just as reading the scripture influences your choices and impacts your life, experiencing the same has a tendency to an even deeper influence.
I cannot recount all the Bible videos. They have changed my life, but I can include a few of my favorites.
There are dozens more.
To read more of Walter’s articles, click the picture.
I can tell you all about these gems, but whatever I say won’t do justice to the powerful message and medium through which the videos portray and witness of the divinity of Christ and the life-changing lessons that he taught. You know them. They are familiar to you.
And the messages conveyed are just waiting to be received, learned, and enjoyed.
I invite you to begin or continue watching these treasures today and every day.
Laborers in the Vinyard
Feeding the 5000
Parable of the Lost Sheep
Reconciled to God
In 1989, Walter Penning formed a consultancy based in Salt Lake City and empowered his clients by streamlining processes and building a loyal, lifetime customer base with great customer service. His true passion is found in his family. He says the best decision he ever made was to marry his sweetheart and have children. The wonderful family she has given him and her constant love, support, and patience amid life's challenges is his panacea.
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