Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [D&C 3-5]

“My Work Shall Go Forth”

January 27 – February 2, 2025

WEEK 05 SUMMARY

=================

Lesson Summary:

Doctrine and Covenants 3-5 tell the story of some early challenges faced by Joseph Smith in the work of translating the Book of Mormon. Section 3 reveals the Lord's rebuke to Joseph after he lost 116 pages of the manuscript, emphasizing the consequences of fearing man more than God and the unstoppable nature of God's work. Section 4 provides guidance on qualifications for those who wish to serve in God's work, highlighting faith, hope, charity, and love. Section 5 focuses on the role of witnesses to the Book of Mormon, introducing Martin Harris's opportunity to become one of the witnesses if he remains faithful, and reassures the truth of the Book of Mormon through divine witnesses.

SPARK 1: SPIRITUAL PIVOT POINTS

================

OBJECT LESSON: “My Work Shall Go Forth”: Cup Gathering Challenge

Etsy Printable Link: [COMING SOON!]

QUESTIONS:

- Have you had a moment like Sister Yee - a time when you felt like you had destroyed what God helped you create? How did you regroup? What blessings were woven into your recovery story?

- What spiritual pivot points were the most impactful for you? Was it hard to let go of the future you thought you’d have and embrace the new one?

- Have you seen someone lean into the work God has given them despite incredible adversity? How can you avoid blaming God for trials in your life?

SPARK 2: THE HELP OF HELIUM

===================================

OBJECT LESSON: “You Should Not Have Feared Man More than God”: Double Ladder Climb

Etsy Printable Link: [COMING SOON!]

QUESTIONS:

- Have you ever felt God speak in your language? Are there metaphors in scripture or words in a blessing that helped you know He was speaking directly to you?

- Have ever felt stopped in your progress while on the Lord’s errand? Have you ever lost access to a spiritual gift because you rejected revelation? How did you get it back?

- What do you think it means to despise his words? How are those two things different? Where do you see that in Joseph’s story? Where have you seen it in your own?

SPARK 3: STEP OFF THE SHORE

=============================

OBJECT LESSON: “They Shall Know of A Surety”: Soda Can Strategies

Etsy Printable Link: [COMING SOON!]

QUESTIONS:

- Which story of Embarking in scripture do you find most inspiring?

- What part of your testimony is based on second-hand experience? Are there things you believe but have not experienced personally?

- Why does the Lord choose servants who have had seasons of sin in their lives? What traits do people like Alma the Younger, Paul, and the Woman Taken in Adultery bring to the work? How do each and every one of us fit into this group?

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 INTRO

00:04:38 QUICK GLANCE

00:07:47 SPARK 1 INSIGHTS

00:17:33 SPARK 1 OBJECT LESSON

00:22:13 SPARK 1 QUESTIONS

00:24:47 SPARK 2 INSIGHTS

00:33:21 SPARK 2 OBJECT LESSON

00:38:20 SPARK 2 QUESTIONS

00:41:36 SPARK 3 INSIGHTS

00:50:27 SPARK 3 OBJECT LESSON

00:55:48 SPARK 3 QUESTIONS

00:59:35 WRAP UP

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmom

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [D&C 2; JSH 1:27-65]

“The Hearts of the Children Shall Turn to Their Fathers”

January 20 – January 26, 2025

WEEK 04 SUMMARY

=================

Lesson Summary:

Doctrine and Covenants 2 reveals the prophecy that Elijah will return before the great day of the Lord to restore priesthood authority, turning the hearts of the fathers to the children and vice versa. In "Joseph Smith—History" 1:27–65, Joseph Smith details his experiences from receiving the First Vision, his persecutions, youthful mistakes, and the visitations of the angel Moroni, who instructs him about the Book of Mormon plates. Moroni repeatedly visits Joseph, explaining the importance of the plates and the role Joseph is to play. Joseph faces persecution and challenges as he prepares to fulfill his divine calling and eventually gains possession of the plates, beginning the translation process with the help of others like Martin Harris, who confirms the authenticity of the characters with scholars. The narrative highlights Joseph's faith, trials, and the miraculous support he receives in his prophetic mission.

SPARK 1:THE HEART OF HAGRID

================

OBJECT LESSON: “He Replied to Me That It Was of God”: Sustain Chain Relay

Etsy Printable Link: [LINK SOON]

QUESTIONS:

- When have you felt truly sustained by someone else?

- At first, Joseph fears Moroni, but it fades quickly. What happened to facilitate that change? How does it compare to other experiences with holy messengers, such as Mary with Gabriel or the Shepherds with the Angels in the field?

- Joseph said Moroni was a resurrected being. What data points can you gather about resurrected bodies from his experience with Moroni?

SPARK 2: TEMPLE PREP PLATES

===================================

OBJECT LESSON: “By the Wisdom of God They Remained Safe”: Strategem & Seek Golden Plates Game

Etsy Printable Link: [LINK SOON]

QUESTIONS:

- What experiences in your early life prepared you for the temple?

- Are there things you have learned in the temple that you could not have learned from a book, class, or other source?

- In April 2020, Elder Soares taught that Joseph’s marriage to Emma was part of his spiritual preparation to receive the plates. Do you think it was significant that she was with him when he finally received the plates?

- If God had promised to protect the plates, why was it necessary for Joseph to use so many different hiding techniques? Do you think that experience was a teaching tool of some kind? What might he have gained from it? What might Emma have gained?

SPARK 3: PLANTED PROMISES

=============================

OBJECT LESSON: “The Hearts of the Children Shall Turn”: Spirit of Elijah Spinners

Etsy Printable Link: [LINK HERE]

QUESTIONS:

- When have you felt your heart turn towards your “fathers” or “children” significantly? Have you ever felt it turn towards relatives you have not known or children/grandchildren who have not been born yet?

- Why do you think Elijah is chosen to be the messenger of the keys? What is significant about his life or teachings that makes him particularly effective in this role?

- In 2021, Elder Bednar connected these teachings about Elijah to Savior’s invitation to “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”9 How are sealing keys and temple covenants being connected to that invitation?

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 INTRO

00:03:25 QUICK GLANCE

00:06:55 SPARK 1 INSIGHTS

00:14:39 SPARK 1 OBJECT...

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

3: D&C [JSH 1:1-26 & VOICES OF THE RESTORATION: JOSEPH SMITH’S FAMILY]

“I Saw a Pillar of Light”

January 13 - January 19

WEEK 03 SUMMARY

=================

Lesson Summary:

In Joseph Smith—History 1:1-26, Joseph Smith recounts his experience growing up amid a religious revival in New York. Confused about which church to join, 14-year-old Joseph was inspired by James 1:5 and prayed for guidance. In the spring of 1820, he experienced a vision where Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ appeared to him in a grove of trees. They instructed him not to join any of the existing churches. Despite facing ridicule and persecution for sharing his vision, Joseph remained firm in his conviction, knowing he had received divine guidance.

SPARK 1: THEY KNEW IT NOT

================

OBJECT LESSON: “I Reflected on It Again and Again”: Fruits of the Spirit Sticks

QUESTIONS:

• Joseph writes this record to combat the “evil-disposed and designing persons” who are attacking the Church. Have you ever had to defend your faith in this way? What strategies do you see Joseph using that give us an example to follow?
• Is there a particular detail in one of the different accounts that makes you feel more connected to Joseph’s story?
• In Helaman, the Spirit is described as a “voice of perfect mildness,” what do you think that sounds like? Usually, “perfect” in scripture means whole or complete. Does that change your perspective on this phrase?

SPARK 2: TEACHING IN THE SAVIOR'S WAY

===========================

OBJECT LESSON: “Many Other Things Did He Say Unto Me”: First Vision Flip Book

QUESTIONS:

• In some accounts, the pillar of light is described as a fire. Do you see parallels between Joseph’s experience and the Burning Bush? Does the Sacred Grove add new light to your understanding of Moses or Enoch’s call to be prophets?
• In verse 26, Joseph is told to “continue as I was until further directed.” Why not have Joseph stay close to a church until Moroni comes a few years later? He’s a teenage boy, wouldn’t some church be better than none? Why not?
• Joseph compares himself to Paul, who also saw a light and heard a voice. Do you think Paul’s death also struck a chord with Joseph? Could that be why he says so little to his mother that day about his experience?

SPARK 3: CANCER OF CONTENTION

=======================

OBJECT LESSON: “They Draw Near unto Me with Their Lips”: Hypocrisy Marshmallow Shooters

QUESTIONS:

• In verse 14, Joseph talks about having “anxieties” and stepping into unknown territory. He decides to pray vocally for the first time. What do you think his anxieties were? How was he able to work through them? What solutions do you see in his strategies?
• When have you seen the cancer of contention grow firsthand? Are there things that fuel its growth? Have you seen it be cured? What happened?
• Elder Andersen said this was a “spiritually defining memory” for Joseph. What memories fit that description for you?

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 INTRO

00:03:30 QUICK GLANCE

00:07:13 SPARK 1 INSIGHTS

00:17:13 SPARK 1 OBJECT LESSON

00:21:10 SPARK 1 QUESTIONS

00:23:12 SPARK 2 INSIGHTS

00:32:51 SPARK 2 OBJECT LESSON

00:36:07 SPARK 2 QUESTIONS

00:38:50 SPARK 3 INSIGHTS

00:49:30 SPARK 3 OBJECT LESSON

00:54:48 SPARK 3 QUESTIONS

00:57:27 WRAP UP

Follow Maria on:

• Creative Come Follow Me digital course

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [D&C 1]

“Hearken, O Ye People”

January 6 – January 12, 2025

WEEK 02 SUMMARY

=================

Lesson Summary:

Doctrine and Covenants Section 1, known as the "Lord's Preface," sets the stage for the revelations that follow it. It addresses the entire world and emphasizes the importance of listening to the Lord's voice, which reaches all people. It warns that those who do not heed it will face consequences. The section establishes the divine authority by which Joseph Smith and others have been called to share these revelations. It highlights that the gospel is to be proclaimed to all nations and that the weak and humble will play a significant role in this effort. The revelations reveal God's purpose to guide and prepare His people for His second coming, ensuring that no one can hide from His decrees and that His commandments will be fulfilled. The Lord urges repentance and faithfulness, offering forgiveness to those who turn to Him, and declares that His word will endure forever.

SPARK 1: THE DIVINE MULTIPLIER

================

OBJECT LESSON: “Power to Lay the Foundation”: Foundation Chips Ringle Challenge Etsy Printable Link:

[Link Here]

QUESTIONS:

- When have you felt called to do something scary or overwhelming?

- Have you ever shrunk from an opportunity to do a work for God? What happened? How did you move past it?”

- When have you felt the love of God through another person?

SPARK 2: CROOKED, BROKEN, SCATTERED

================

OBJECT LESSON: “They Might Come to an Understanding”: Crooked, Broken, Scattered Charades

Etsy Printable Link:

[Link Here]

QUESTIONS:

- Elder Dushku shared a few of his rays. What are yours?

- When have you experienced what it’s like to struggle to be understood?

- If God intended to write this preface, why didn’t Joseph receive the revelation sooner?

- Do you think this is a lesson about coming to God first? Or do you think this was a lesson about how revelation can come after our own best efforts are expended?

SPARK 3: COVENANT CONDUCTORS

================

OBJECT LESSON: “[They] Might Have Power”: Covenant Power Strip Analogy

Etsy Printable Link:

[Link Here]

QUESTIONS:

- Have you ever felt God’s power flow into you? How did you know the source?

- In verse 36, it says that in the last days “the Lord shall have power over his saints, and shall reign in their midst.” How does this phrase relate to covenental conductors?

- Who is your favorite scriptural example of power being transferred

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:13 INTRO

00:02:51 QUICK GLANCE

00:05:15 SPARK 1 INSIGHTS

00:13:27 SPARK 1 OBJECT LESSON

00:16:54 SPARK 1 QUESTIONS

00:17:46 SPARK 2 INSIGHTS

00:24:41 SPARK 2 OBJECT LESSON

00:27:21 SPARK 2 QUESTIONS

00:28:53 SPARK 3 INSIGHTS

00:34:02 SPARK 3 OBJECT LESSON

00:37:51 SPARK 3 QUESTIONS

00:39:15 WRAP UP

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmom

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [THE RESTORATION OF THE FULNESS OF THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST]

“The Promised Restoration Goes Forward”

December 30 – January 5, 2025

WEEK 01: SUMMARY

=================

Lesson Summary:

The Restoration Proclamation highlights the foundational events and principles of the Restoration of the Gospel, such as Joseph Smith's First Vision, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, and the reestablishment of the Church with priesthood authority. It underscores the reality of the Godhead, the role of Jesus Christ as the Savior, and the purpose of the Church in preparing for His Second Coming. The document also calls for personal reflection on these truths and an invitation to embrace the restored gospel.

SPARK 1: JOSEPH’S SPIRITUAL POWER PUNCH

================

OBJECT LESSON: Etched in the Fleshy Tables of our Hearts”: Restoration Proclamation Study Sheets --[ETSY LINK COMING SOON]--

QUESTIONS:

- President Nelson chose to stand in the sacred grove to give this proclamation. Why was that important? Why do we preserve these places as a Church?

- Do you feel like there is power in being somewhere where history happened?

- What experiences have you had in sacred places like this?

SPARK 2: PATTERNS OF LOVE

================

OBJECT LESSON: “God Loves His Children”: Understanding The Restoration Teaching Kit --[ETSY LINK COMING SOON]--

QUESTIONS:

- When have you felt pieces of your testimony stitch together?

- What connections have you found between your understanding of God and the understanding of friends of other faiths?

- When have you felt power in proclaiming truth? Has it ever backfired in an unexpected way?

SPARK 3: THE MIGHT OF A MATCH

================

OBJECT LESSON: “Gather Together in One All Things in Christ”: Restoration Kerplunk Game --[ETSY LINK COMING SOON]--

QUESTIONS:

- When have you had a match-lighting moment? What helped you have the courage?

- Have you ever experienced a time when you thought an idea was yours only to realize later that God had a hand in its development?

- Joseph had many mentors (living and angelic), who has been a mentor for you in your efforts to step up to your destiny?

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:13 PREVIEW OF 2025

00:03:31 LESSON SUMMARY

00:05:37 SPARK 1 INSIGHTS

00:13:42 SPARK 1 OBJECT LESSON

00:16:22 SPARK 1 QUESTIONS

00:18:03 SPARK 2 INSIGHTS

00:22:38 SPARK 2 OBJECT LESSON

00:27:42 SPARK 2 QUESTIONS

00:28:42 SPARK 3 INSIGHTS

00:35:18 SPARK 3 OBJECT LESSON

00:40:34 SPARK 3 QUESTIONS

00:41:37 WRAP UP

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

Book of Mormon [CHRISTMAS] Insights and Creative

“He Shall Come into the World to Redeem His People”

December 23 – December 29, 2024

WEEK 52: SUMMARY

=================

Lesson Summary:

This week, we’ll wrap up our 2024 study with an in-depth look at the witnesses to the birth of Jesus Christ. Each individual witness offers an important aspect of the Nativity story that helps us understand how to “come unto Christ” in powerful ways. We’ll follow the seven-section study plan from the Gospel Library App’s Christmas Study Plan, studying key verses and tying in creative object lessons from our Book of Mormon study.

ETSY Printable Links;

[Coming Soon]

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:13 PREVIEW OF 2025

00:04:40 INSIGHTS INTRODUCTION

00:08:39 SECTION 1

00:17:31 SECTION 2

00:25:16 SECTION 3

00:32:17 SECTION 4

00:37:46 SECTION 5

00:45:53 SECTION 6

00:51:39 SECTION 7

00:57:54 WRAP UP

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

Book of Mormon [MORONI 10] Creative

“Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”

December 16 – December 22, 2024

LINK TO THE INSIGHTS VIDEO FOR MORONI 10:

https://youtu.be/4L1xssXq4NA

WEEK 51: SUMMARY

=================

Creative Summary:

This week, we’ll emphasize spiritual gifts, remembering gospel truths, and the process of becoming perfected in Christ. Each object lesson uses a unique activity—a spiritual gift exchange, a Kahoot quiz, and a pinecone-to-pine tree craft—to illustrate key scriptural concepts. The lessons draw heavily on modern general conference talks to enrich understanding and provide contemporary application of Moroni's teachings.

Week 51 Object Lessons

1: “Deny Not the Gifts of God”: Spiritual Gift Exchange

2: “I Exhort You to Remember These Things”: End of Year Kahoot Challenge

3: “Come Unto Christ and Be Perfected in Him;”: Pinecone to Pine Tree Craft

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:13 CREATIVE INTRODUCTION

00:02:44 OBJECT LESSON 1

00:07:17 OBJECT LESSON 2

00:09:38 OBJECT LESSON 3

00:14:17 WRAP UP

LINKS

=====

ETSY Printables: https://meckmom.etsy.com

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

Book of Mormon [MORONI 10] Insights

““Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”

December 16 – December 22, 2024

LINK TO THE CREATIVE VIDEO FOR MORONI 10

https://youtu.be/kHV_jGmmU8Q

WEEK 51: SUMMARY

=================

Lesson Summary:

In Moroni 10, Moroni concludes the Book of Mormon with a heartfelt exhortation and invitation. He invites readers to ponder the mercies of God throughout history and to ask God, with real intent, if the Book of Mormon is true, promising that by the power of the Holy Ghost, they can know its truth. Moroni emphasizes the importance of spiritual gifts given by the Spirit, such as faith, healing, and prophecy, and encourages everyone to seek these gifts with faith and belief in Christ. He speaks of the significance of faith, hope, and charity, noting that without these, one cannot be saved in the kingdom of God. Finally, Moroni urges readers to come unto Christ, be perfected in Him, and embrace His grace, as he bids farewell for this life, expressing hope in eternal life through Christ.

Questions to Consider:

Moroni 10 | Why is that a temptation in our day? Is there comfort in believing his powers are limited somehow? Are these all the same power? How can we tell them apart?

Moroni 10:30 | What constitutes an evil gift? What does that term refer to? How might this relate to the message of the Savior about God not giving stones or serpents (Luke 11:11)?

Moroni 10:34 | How do you picture the final judgment? What does the setting look like to you? Which talks, scriptures, or commentaries have given you an understanding of what to expect?

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:13 INSIGHTS INTRODUCTION

00:04:23 INSIGHTS CHAPTER SUMMARY

00:07:29 SPARK 1: SOWING TRUTH

00:16:02 SPARK 2: SPIRITUAL SANDWICH

00:24:27 SPARK 3: POWER OF THE MIDDLE CHILD

00:34:55 QUESTIONS

00:38:52 WRAP UP

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.