This chapter for me recaps the happening of Nephi and his family coming to the promise land across the sea. Vs. 13 tells how Laman, Lemuel and their posterity felt they were wronged.
Yes, Nephi was always favored of the Lord. The commentary reminds me that Lamen and Lemuel murmured against Lehi and Nephi because they new not the dealings of God, nor would they know him because they would not inquire of the Lord. "If no seed has been planted, one can hardly expect a rich and abundant harvest."
Verse 17. And thus they have taught their children that they should hate them, and that they should murder them, and that they should rob and plunder them, and do all they could to destroy them; therefore they have an eternal hatred towards the children of Nephi.
The commentary stated, "Have taught ....hate] Heaven's truths stand in the light of day: they teach love, patience, long-suffering, and forgiveness. False traditions feed on hatred and bitterness, which among many peoples have been passed from generation to generation. Hatred is a bitter seed that can produce nothing but bitter fruits."
The people of Zeniff had a pure intent. After the actions of war; they returned to tending their flocks, tilling the ground, and raising their families.
I personally feel that I am always falling short when it comes to teaching my children by example how to have patience, speak kindly, and having compassion for others when they are hurt (because I warned them to stop doing something they shouldn't be doing.).
So as I read this commentary, I questioned what kind of Legacy will I leave them that will be passed down from generation to generation. In know in my heart that I desire to plant seeds of love, happiness, tenderness, kindness etc. So that good seeds can sprout and grow. All to often the fruits that I see being produced in my children's actions are not in line with my desires. It is always a hard to realize they are acting that way because I have modeled it in some form.
Reading this help me realize that I have to give my actions a swift kick and do better for the sake of my children and their children. I must learn to relax about the non-important things and focus more on what had eternal consequences. Easier said then done for me. I pray that regardless of what type of mother I truly am, that in the long run my children will turn out alright because they have the light of Christ, know right from wrong, and can choose to the better path.
I share this to provoke thoughts for all of us about what type of legacy we will leave for our children. It is my prayer that it will be the Legacy of our Hearts, Minds, and Soul! Love You ALL!
