Welcome.

In the October 2017 General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elder Neil Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles presented a talk he entitled, “The Voice of the Lord.”

In the beginning of his talk, he said,

“Recently, while visiting the Provo City Center Temple, I admired a painting entitled First Vision from Afar. The painting depicts the light and power from heaven as the Father and Son visited the young Joseph Smith.” (Andersen, N. “The Voice of the Lord,” General Conference, October 2017)

I, too, have cherished and marveled at this painting, for it hangs on one of the walls on the second floor in the temple where I worship and clean.

It’s breathtaking.

I am awed as I take it in. The magnificent display of heavenly light cascading down from God’s realm. To an honest seeking boy. Hoovering over Palmyra. The heavens themselves witnessing “from afar.”

When I walk past this painting, I am reminded about the time, in the military, when I had a superior’s finger shoved in my face with these words, “Tell me, tell me you don’t believe that story about ole Joe Smith.”

I remember the almost paralyzing fear as I wondered if I would shrink.

But then, as beautiful as that sweeping glory from heaven, I heard myself say, “Sir, yes sir, I do.”

And then the witness of peace that crept from the sole of my feet to the crown of my head.

And I knew that I knew.

What happened that day in the Sacred Grove changed the course of humanity.

I want it to change my life.

From afar, there was a witness, but up close to my heart, I have also received a testimony which I will not deny.

Let the world say what they will. I have garnished my own witness, and it has been worth the price required for it.

Unto all the world: I testify of the truth of the First Vision!