Lesson 3 - the Vision of the Tree of Life

1. The answer to Nephi's question "what is the interpretation of the Tree which my father saw" always suprises me. In class someone highlighted the fact that a picture is worth a thousand words. Apparently it is the best way to teach. The angel shows a series of images or views to answer Nephi's question. I think Nephi understood already that the Tree represented the love of God but didn't understand it's fullest or truest meaning. The truest form of God's love is the Atonement of Jesus Christ, a perfect child, sired by God himself who would come and carry the burden of sin and pain and be crucified. In class I got frustrated in class as I listened to the discussion continue solely on this vain of discussion. I felt there was still something lacking. I can't feel the love of God or the effects of the Tree of life until it enters me and shed's itself abroad. The foot note to 1 Ne 11:22 'a' leads us to Moroni 8:26 for further definition of what "sheddeth itself abroad in the hears of the children of men" means. Summarized it is the gospel --> Faith in Jesus Christ, Repentance, the Holy Ghost to ratify, purify, and bring about peace and joy IN us.

2. I found it interesting this time around that Nephi describes briefly that the rod of iron leads to a fountain of water OR the tree of life. So both were there and Lehi didn't mention the water or didn't see it? Maybe they're one in the same? The fruit was white above any other white thing. And definitely "desirable to make one happy", as Lehi says (before he's even tasted it apparently). But the partaking does bring joy. Thinking about this makes me want to relive every moment of gospel joy which I experience at least weekly at church, and quite frequently as I study.

3. 4 Categories of people that were part of the numberless concourses of people:
People seeking the path that led to the tree. (applies to I - III)
I. Those that were lost by the mist of darkness.
II. Those that caught hold of the rod of iron and held on through the mist of darkness. looked around and were ashamed. Then fell away into forbidden paths.
III. Others came forth, held to the rod of iron and made it to the tree. These "fell down" at the tree (but seemed to remain there).
IV. There were some that were pressing forth to go straight to the great and spacious building.

I would place myself in group three, or at least that is where I would hope I am. I fear that I too have a problem with looking around to see what the world is doing and not to feel ashamed but still tempted that somehow there is a more enjoyable way of life. In the end the people in the great and spacious building are not filled with Joy like those that made it to the tree and stayed there. I hope to always recognize that more clearly in my life so that the temptations I face constantly lose more and more of their interest over time. We must see things as they really are.