"May Christ Lift Thee"

Jana Winters Parkin (American, born 1963)
Weaving on Threads of Light (2015)
watercolor, 15 x 22 inches
Collection of Margo and Garfield Cook
Used with permission of the artist
artist’s website

Artist Jana Winters Parkin writes of the work above, “I painted Weaving on Threads of Light from a historical photo and loved the serenity of her expression and the work of her hands. I created almost the entire painting Including the background and fleshtones using a palette of just three primary colors: red, yellow, and blue, which symbolize faith, hope, and charity. This painting is also about the divine role of womanhood. The woman is receiving light from above, symbolizing the revealed truth on which we base our work. Her weaving represents our work, be it domestic, vocational, or creative. When those threads of our work are woven on eternal truths, our work takes on a power and magic far transcending the seemingly mundane tasks. Although there is darkness present, this woman is both giving and receiving light."

Discussion Questions:

1. Moroni writes, in chapter 7, of a sermon by his father Mormon (Moroni 7:1) and rewrites to share with us, in chapters 8 and 9 (Moroni 8:1, Moroni 9:1), letters from his father. What do these chapters teach us about the significance of note writing when we hear inspiring words of another? What of importance might you wish to write to someone close to you (a child, other relative, close associate)?

2. Mormon speaks to the "peaceable followers of Christ" who have "obtained a sufficient hope" (Moroni 7:3). How are peaceable and hope related in those who follow Jesus?

3. In explaining that little children do not need to be baptized, Mormon explains, "the whole need no physician, but they that are sick" (Moroni 8:8). How does this idea that the gospel is to heal our sicknesses cause you to think about your own faults in relation to Jesus, the master healer? And what about the others with whom you worship?

For Children & Youth:

1. "Satan stirreth them up continually to anger one with another" (Moroni 9:3). This is in sharp contrast to the "peaceable followers of Christ" who move in a "peaceable walk" (Moroni 7:3). What can you do to soften anger and spread peace like Jesus?

2. What is hope and how can it make a difference in how you face troubles in your life? (Moroni 7:40-41).

3. Art project: Mormon gives a detailed description of charity in Moroni 7;44-48. Give each person in your family or study group a square piece of paper, all the same size. Have each person pick a phrase about charity and draw or doodle something representative of that phrase. Tape all of the squares together to make a "charity quilt." How might you feel if you could be wrapped in this quilt of charity?

Find More Inspiration: