“Let Him Ask of God” 19 “ x 21” x 14” high |
Joseph Smith was born on a rented farm in the town of Sharon, Vermont, on December 23, 1805. He was the third born child of Joseph Smith Sr. age 34, and Lucy Mack Smith age 29. Joseph described his father and mother as “goodly parents,” and esteemed it “one of the greatest earthly blessings” to be raised under their benevolent care. At an early age, Joseph was puzzled concerning the churches. How was he to know which of them was the right Church?One evening Joseph took down the large family bible and began to read its sacred pages. As he read, he came to the Epistle of James, fifth verse, which reads as follows: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him.” This scripture caused him to think. He put the bible back in its place, and then went to bed. He awoke early the next morning while his family slept. Joseph made his way to a small grove, not far from his home. Selecting a suitable spot in the grove, he knelt and began to call upon God in earnest prayer. While he was praying, he saw an exceedingly bright light coming down out of heaven. As the light reached the top of the trees, Joseph beheld two heavenly beings. They were God the Father and his son Jesus Christ. Pointing to the Son, the Father said, “Joseph, This is my beloved Son, hear Him. Joseph’s humble prayer was answered. | 
