In a meeting with the Twelve Apostles, the Prophet Joseph Smith “told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book” (History of the Church, 4:461; see also the introduction to the Book of Mormon).

This statement by the Prophet Joseph Smith is so powerful. Knowing that it is true really helps me anchor my life with the Book of Mormon and the gospel. I read the Book of Mormon everyday. John and I read it together and now this year I will read it along with the Sunday School class. The church provides class members a handy study guide that is available online. I am going to use it in this format to help me along in my attempt to create a conversation about the church.

My focus this week will be on the introduction and on lesson one. Today I will just focus on the introduction to the study guide so I have something else to study the rest of the week.

Come to class prepared to contribute insights, ask questions, share appropriate experiences, bear testimony, and listen attentively to the teacher and the other class members. When you have studied the reading assignments and pondered the questions in this study guide, you will be better prepared to experience the fulfillment of the Lord’s words when He said, “He that preacheth and he that receiveth, understand one another, and both are edified and rejoice together” (D&C 50:22).

Over my years of attending classes, I have learned that I learn more when I do the things outlined in the paragraph above. I feel the spirit more strongly when I am ready to learn. I understand more of what is being taught. Even if I don’t share my thoughts with the class, I have more Christ centered thoughts when I have prepared for the lesson. That is why I sometimes don’t understand why I don’t always prepare for the lessons. Why do we sometimes not do the little things that we KNOW will keep us close to the Lord?

Alright, to conclude my post, I would like to ask for any feedback on how to make this blog a conversation about the church. That is my goal. I really would appreciate any insights and comments. Comments are not just welcome, they should be required to be a part of my conversation. Well, enjoy the day and remember to stop and smell the roses.