The boy put down the book as he sat under the shade of an old apple tree.
He gazed upwards into the sky, thinking of God and the meaning of eternity.
He was only a lad of thirteen and not yet mature.
He could best be described as a teenager who was awkward and insecure.
This summer would be a gamechanger for the youth, a pivotal season.
It was a time that he would long remember, and for a very good reason.
His reading was sporadic and not focused at times,
but he received the intended message from a source he knew was divine.
This book that he cherished was unique and like no other.
In his experience, no other work could compare with its plainness and grandeur.
He could discern that the volume had no pretense, no false agenda.
He could sense the deep sincerity and genuine concern of its many authors.
This was no “made up” work of fiction created for entertainment value.
It was a true record, a sacred historical and spiritual treasure.
At times, the words flowed in poetic fashion, painting a colorful and holy mural -
a tapestry of messages about the gospel of our Lord and Savior.
He found it to be a history of many peoples infused with the teachings of Christ -
a record that we can enjoy in our day, a timeless scriptural masterpiece.
This “stick of Joseph” is the record that Isaiah proclaimed a marvelous work and wonder. (Ezekiel 37: 15-20) (Isaiah 29: 11-14)
For those who partake, it can be a blessing to them forever.
The young man arose after a few minutes of deep contemplation.
He was prompted to seek further light and inspiration.
He sought solitude in a more private location,
then knelt and gave a heartfelt prayerful petition.
He had read that one could know the truth of the book if the truth was sought sincerely.
A promise that a spirit would be manifest that would allow one to see most clearly.
A spiritual experience could be obtained that would corroborate the truth of this remarkable record,
which would leave an indelible imprint that could not be denied.
What the boy felt then would change his life forever.
An unmistakable sign was given that burst upon his heart and soul with great fervor.
A prophet had once said that a person could get closer to God by reading this book.
The boy now knew this was true because of the investigation he undertook.
September 2022
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