Section 76

This section is made up of several visions/revelations given to the prophet Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon. The visions talk about the various degrees of glory; the kingdoms where all of us will dwell after the judgement. One of the main things that I noticed about this section this time around was the theme of light. The stark contrasts between light and dark really bring more meaning to the visions. The very beginning of the section, when the Father and Son appear to Joseph and Sidney, is full of light and joy. Immediately after this joyous introduction, they receive the vision of Lucifer. What a contrast! There is darkness, sadness, weeping, and evil. The tone continues as they have the vision of the sons of perdition. Then, right after this, they have the vision of the Celestial kingdom! Again, what a contrast! Seeing these totally opposite degrees of light really makes me want, more than ever, to be where the most light is. I want to be where light is, because light makes me feel safe, comfortable, happy, and warm. I want to be where Heavenly Father is, and where there is always joy and light abounds. To me, the various kingdoms can be called Degrees of Glory, but I also like to think of them now as Degrees of Light.

On a side note, I had another thought about this section regarding choices. I think it is interesting how it says that the angels of darkness were those who had "suffered themselves through the power of the devil to be overcome." There is always a choice. You allow yourself to give in to temptations and listen to the voice of satan and his servants. But you can also choose to overcome the adversary. So, as the logo on my swim team shirt says, "Predator or Prey; It's Your Choice!" :)